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Description
Lobelia Appendiculata, commonly known as the Pale Lobelia, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Lobeliaceae family. This plant is native to North America, specifically in the Great Plains, from Montana to Texas. It typically grows up to 1-3 feet tall and has a spread of 1-2 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Lobeliaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Appendiculata has narrow leaves that are up to 2.5 inches long and 0.25 inches wide. The leaves are light green in color and have a smooth texture. The flowers are tubular-shaped and are about 0.5 inches long. The flowers are pale blue in color and have a white throat. The plant blooms from June to August.
Care Guide
Water: Lobelia Appendiculata requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. The plant prefers moist but well-draining soil.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause the plant to become leggy.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Sunlight: Lobelia Appendiculata prefers partial shade to full sun. Too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and not bloom as much.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Appendiculata is susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and slugs. The plant is also prone to diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering, provide adequate air circulation, and remove any infected leaves or plants immediately.
Habitat
Lobelia Appendiculata is native to North America and can be found in the Great Plains region, from Montana to Texas. The plant grows in open prairies, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Appendiculata a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Lobelia Appendiculata is a great plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lobelia Appendiculata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Lobelia Appendiculata tolerate drought?
A: No, Lobelia Appendiculata prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How do I propagate Lobelia Appendiculata?
A: The plant can be propagated through division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Lobelia siphilitica
- Lobelia erinus
- Lobelia laxiflora
References
- “Lobelia appendiculata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m800>.
- “Lobelia appendiculata.” Plant Database. Accessed 29 June 2021. <http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOAP2>.
- “Pale Lobelia.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 29 June 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOAP2>.
