General Information
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. is a species of flowering plants in the family Campanulaceae. It is commonly known as hairy lobelia or hairy-stemmed lobelia.
Origin
The plant originates from South America, particularly from countries such as Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. It is commonly found in tropical rainforests and high altitude areas in these regions.
Appearance
As the name suggests, Lobelia pilosa Schltr. has hairy stems and leaves that range from green to reddish-brown in color. It can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and has flowers that are typically blue or purple. The plant produces seed capsules that are cylindrical in shape.
Uses
Despite being a beautiful plant, Lobelia pilosa Schltr. has a wide range of medicinal uses. The plant's extracts have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory problems, fever, and asthma. It is also believed to have a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Additionally, the plant has been used as a natural dye.
Light Requirements
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. is a plant that requires high light levels to grow properly. This plant should be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours of the day to thrive. If grown indoors, it should be placed in a location where it will receive bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Lobelia pilosa Schltr. is between 20°C to 28°C. This plant can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, but it should not be exposed to temperatures below 15°C. Avoid exposing this plant to temperatures above 32°C as it may cause heat stress and wilting.
Soil Requirements
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH level for this plant is between 5.5 and 6.5. This plant can grow in a soil mix that contains a combination of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. However, it is important to avoid over-watering this plant as it may cause root rot.
Cultivation of Lobelia pilosa Schltr.
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. is an ornamental plant that can be grown in both outdoor and indoor settings. The plant is native to Madagascar and typically thrives in areas that have a tropical climate. When planting Lobelia pilosa Schltr., it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained as the plant does not tolerate waterlogging. The plant prefers to grow in slightly acidic soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.5.
Watering Needs of Lobelia pilosa Schltr.
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. requires moderate watering as the plant does not tolerate overwatering. The soil should be kept moist, but not saturated, to ensure that the plant thrives optimally. During dry weather, it may be necessary to increase the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from drying out. When watering the plant, it is recommended to avoid wetting the foliage as this can attract pests and diseases.
Fertilization of Lobelia pilosa Schltr.
Regular fertilization is essential when growing Lobelia pilosa Schltr. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer with equal percentages of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Fertilizer should be applied every two weeks during the growing season, which typically occurs between spring and summer. Overfertilization should be avoided as it can lead to reduced flowering and stunted growth.
Pruning of Lobelia pilosa Schltr.
Pruning is an essential aspect of Lobelia pilosa Schltr. care. The plant produces a profusion of colorful blooms on tall, arching stems that require support. To ensure that the plant maintains its compact growth habit and does not become leggy, it is recommended to pinch back the stems of young plants. Deadheading spent blooms can also encourage the plant to produce more flowers. If necessary, the plant can be pruned after the flowering period to remove old stems and promote new growth.
Propagation of Lobelia pilosa Schltr.
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to Africa. Propagation of this plant is mainly through seeds which can be collected from the plant.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Lobelia pilosa Schltr. can be collected from the plant once they are fully matured. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining, light soil mix, and the sowing can be done on the surface of the soil mix. The seeds should be gently pressed into the soil mix, and covered with a thin layer of the soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not saturated, and the container should be placed in a warm, bright location.
Germination of the seeds usually takes around 10-14 days, and once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted into individual pots. During the transplanting process, care should be taken not to damage the delicate roots of the seedlings. The transplanting of the seedlings should be done in such a way that they are not planted too deep into the soil mix.
The newly transplanted seedlings should be placed in a warm and bright location, and should be watered regularly, but not excessively. The plants should be allowed to grow to a suitable size before they are transplanted to their final positions.
Disease Management
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. is susceptible to various diseases, with the most common being fungal and bacterial infections. It's essential to stay vigilant to keep the plant healthy and prevent the spread of diseases to other plants.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery substance to appear on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. To control powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide. Additionally, increase air circulation by spacing the plants further apart.
Bacterial Leaf Blight
Bacterial leaf blight is a bacterial disease that causes small, dark-colored spots to appear on the plant's leaves. To control bacterial leaf blight, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a copper-based fungicide. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plants have adequate space for air circulation.
Pest Management
Lobelia pilosa Schltr. is generally resistant to pest infestations, but there are a few common pests that may affect the plant.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed off the sap of the plant. To control aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings that feed on aphids.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs are common garden pests that can damage the plant by chewing holes in the leaves. To control these pests, handpick them from the plant and dispose of them. Additionally, create a barrier around the plant using copper tape or diatomaceous earth.
