Origin
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.) is a hybrid plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. Its parent species are Lobelia cardinalis and Lobelia siphilitica, both native to North America. The hybrid plant itself was developed in the United Kingdom in the 19th century, and its cultivar 'Schneezwerg' was created in Germany in the 20th century.
Common Names
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.) is commonly known as Schneezwerg, Fan Scarlet, and Garden Lobelia.
Uses
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.) is primarily grown as an ornamental plant because of its showy flowers. Its vivid red and white blooms appear in clusters from mid-summer to early fall, making it a popular choice for garden beds, borders, and containers. Schneezwerg is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and respiratory stimulant properties, although it should be used with caution because of its toxicity.
General Appearance
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.) is a clump-forming perennial that typically grows up to 30 inches tall and 18 inches wide. Its stems are erect, leafy, and sometimes purplish in color. The plant's leaves are lance-shaped, toothed, and up to 6 inches long. The flowers are tubular, with five petals that are fused into a fan shape, and have a prominent lower lip. They are about 1 inch long and grow in dense spikes at the tips of the stems. The blooms are red with white tips, and the plant may continue to produce flowers if deadheaded regularly.
Light Requirements
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. It is best to avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, as this can cause the leaves to wilt.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a cool and moist environment. It can tolerate a wide temperature range, from 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 27 degrees Celsius). However, it is important to avoid extreme temperatures, as they can be harmful to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden grows well in moist, rich, and well-drained soil. It prefers acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its quality.
Cultivation Methods
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.) is a perennial flowering plant that thrives in well-draining soil with good moisture retention. The plant prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade in hot climates. It can be grown in containers or in garden beds, provided the soil is well-drained.
Watering Needs
The plant requires consistent moisture to thrive, especially during the hot summer months. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering to every two weeks.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, it is recommended to fertilize the plant every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with high nitrogen content to encourage foliage growth, and switch to a fertilizer high in phosphorus during flowering to promote blooming.
Pruning
Pruning the plant after flowering will help maintain its shape and promote new growth. Cut back the stems to about half their length, removing any dead or damaged branches. If the plant becomes too leggy, pinch back new growth to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.)
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.) can be propagated through various methods such as seed, stem cuttings, and division. Propagation through seeds is the most common method for this plant. However, it can also be propagated through stem cuttings or division for faster results.
Propagation via seeds
The seeds of Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.) are very small and need to be sown on the surface of a moist seed-starting mix. They require light for germination, so the seeds should not be covered with soil. The ideal temperature for the seeds to germinate is between 60-70°F.
Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted into individual containers until mature enough for planting outdoors. This typically takes 6-8 weeks from seed germination.
Propagation via stem cuttings
Propagation via stem cuttings is another effective way to propagate Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet (pro sp.) var. schneckii Bowden (pro nm.). To do this, take a stem cutting that is 3-4 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder. Insert the prepared cutting into a well-draining potting mix, covering it with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Rooting should occur within a few weeks, and the plant can then be transplanted into a larger container or outdoors.
Propagation via division
Propagation through division involves separating a mature plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. This method can be used to create new plants or to rejuvenate larger, mature plants. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the plant and separate it into smaller sections with a sharp, sterile tool. Each section should have at least one shoot with its own root system. These individual sections can then be planted separately and watered thoroughly.
Disease Management for Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet var. schneckii Bowden
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet var. schneckii Bowden is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and development. The following are common diseases that can affect the plant:
Botrytis Blight
Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to rot. To manage botrytis blight, remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation by spacing plants appropriately. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plant is grown in sunlight to keep it dry.
Pythium Root Rot
Pythium root rot is another fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage the disease, avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil. Additionally, planting disease-resistant varieties and avoiding plant stress can help to prevent pythium root rot.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a bacterial disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing circular spots that are brown or black. To manage leaf spot, remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation by spacing plants appropriately. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plant is grown in sunlight to keep it dry. Fungicides may also be applied to manage the disease.
Pest Management for Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet var. schneckii Bowden
Lobelia ×speciosa Sweet var. schneckii Bowden is also susceptible to various pests that can feed on its leaves or roots and cause damage to the plant. The following are common pests that can affect the plant:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage aphids, wash them off with a strong stream of water, or apply insecticides that are labeled for use on lobelia.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, reddish-brown insects that can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, apply insecticidal soap or sulfur sprays regularly. Additionally, ensure that the plant is grown in sunlight to prevent spider mite infestations.
Root Knot Nematodes
Root knot nematodes are microscopic worms that can infect the roots of the plant, causing root galls and stunted growth. To manage root knot nematodes, ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, and apply nematicides that are labeled for use on lobelia.
