Origin
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. is a plant species that is native to Mexico, specifically the states of Chiapas, Hidalgo, Oaxaca and Veracruz. It grows at an altitude of 1,700 to 2,800 meters above sea level on rocky slopes and in pine and oak forests.
Common Names
Some of the common names for Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. include "coyotillo", "cola de zorro", "flor de paloma" and "flor de San Francisco".
Uses
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. has been traditionally used in Mexican folk medicine to treat respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. It is also used to treat gastrointestinal disorders. The plant contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
General Appearance
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. Its stems are hairy and angular. The leaves are alternate and have a lanceolate shape with serrated edges. The flowers are tubular, with a deep blue or violet corolla that is about 3 cm long. The fruit is a capsule that contains small black seeds.
Growth Conditions for Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm.
Light: Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. prefers to grow in semi-shaded to full sunlit areas. It can tolerate light shade but may not thrive as well in such conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to plant them in a location that receives 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature: The plant requires a warm climate to thrive. Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. grows best in areas where temperatures range from 18-25°C (64-77°F), and it is frost-sensitive. The plant can still survive under intense heat, but will require frequent watering to remain healthy.
Soil: The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.5-7.2). The soil should not be waterlogged as the roots may rot and die. If the soil is heavy, you can add some coarse sand, vermiculite or perlite to improve drainage. This species loves soils rich in humus and manure to aid in growth and establishment.
Cultivation
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. is a perennial herb that grows well in well-drained moist soil. It thrives under partial shade but can also survive in full sun conditions. The plant is propagated through seeds or cuttings, and it is recommended to start them in a seedbed or propagator first for about six weeks, then transplant them to their final location when they are about 5 cm tall.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to maintain the soil moist, especially during dry seasons. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can rot the plant roots. During hot weather, the plant should be watered twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and flowering, it is advisable to add some fertilizers to the soil, especially nitrogen-rich fertilizers, just before planting or during the active growth phases. It is recommended to use organic fertilizers since they gradually release nutrients to the soil.
Pruning
The plant benefits from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and more flowering. Deadheading (removing faded flowers) should be done regularly to promote flowering and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. The plant should also be cut down to the ground level during the winter or dormant phase to encourage fresh growth in the spring.
Propagation of Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm.
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.
Seed propagation
Fresh seeds of Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. can be sown in a well-draining soil mixture, and kept moist and warm. The seeds will germinate in about 7-14 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or containers after they have developed their first true leaves.
Cutting propagation
Cuttings of Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. can be taken from healthy and vigorous plants, and rooted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be about 5-10 cm long, and the lower leaves should be removed. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone powder before planting in the soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until they develop roots.
Division propagation
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. can also be propagated by dividing mature plants. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the roots should be gently separated into sections, ensuring that each section has its own roots and shoots. The divided sections can be planted in individual pots or in the ground, in a well-draining soil mixture, and kept moist until they become established.
Disease Management
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. can be affected by several diseases that can compromise its health and reduce its ornamental value. Here are some common diseases that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that may result in wilting, yellowing, and browning of leaves, eventual dieback of entire branches, and death of the affected plant. The fungus enters the plant through the roots and moves up the stem, restricting the movement of water and nutrients. To manage this disease, promptly identify and remove infected plants and destroy the affected plant debris. Use disease-free seeds and avoid planting in areas with a history of the disease. Use of fungicides is not usually effective.
Pythium Root Rot
Pythium root rot is caused by Pythium spp., which can result in the rotting of the roots, causing stunted growth, yellowing of leaves and wilting. The fungi thrive in overwatered soils and usually infect plants with weakened root systems. To manage this disease, plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Use of fungicides and biological controls could also be helpful.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a powdery white film on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the affected plant. The fungus thrives in areas with high humidity and low light intensity. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and destroy them. Powdery mildew can also be managed through cultural practices such as spacing plants properly, ensuring good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides applied early can help control this disease.
Pest Management
Lobelia rhynchopetalum Hemsl. subsp. callosomarginata E.Wimm. can also be affected by pests that can reduce the plant's health and ornamental value. Here are some common pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, white, winged insects that suck sap from the leaves of the affected plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. To manage this pest, introduce beneficial predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. Using insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays can also be helpful.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that also suck sap from the plant, often causing stippling, yellowing, and eventual leaf drop. To manage this pest, introduce predatory mites or employ cultural practices such as spraying the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests and maintaining adequate humidity levels.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths or butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing ragged holes and chewed edges. To manage this pest, pick them off the plant by hand and introduce biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad. Applying organic insecticides such as neem oil also helps to control caterpillar infestations.
