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Description
Lobelia Dortmanna, also known as water lobelia or dortmann’s cardinal flower, is an aquatic plant that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a perennial herb that grows in shallow water, typically in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant has long stems that can grow up to one meter in length, with leaves that are oblong or lance-shaped, and flowers that are blue or purple in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
The Lobelia Dortmanna plant has long, thin stems that can grow up to one meter in length, with leaves that are oblong or lance-shaped, and flowers that are blue or purple in color. The flowers are about 1.5cm in length and have a five-lobed corolla, which gives them a unique shape. The leaves are typically arranged in whorls around the stem, and they can range from 2 to 6cm in length. The plant is usually submerged in shallow water, with only the leaves and flowers visible above the surface.
Care Guide
Water: Lobelia Dortmanna is an aquatic plant, so it requires a constant supply of water. It should be grown in a pond or container that is filled with water, and the water level should be maintained at a depth of 10-30cm.
Fertilization: Lobelia Dortmanna does not require fertilization, as it obtains most of its nutrients from the water in which it grows.
Soil: The plant does not require soil, as it is an aquatic plant.
Sunlight: Lobelia Dortmanna prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 4 through 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Dortmanna is relatively disease-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal infections if the water in which it grows is not properly maintained. Common pests that may affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lobelia Dortmanna is typically found in shallow water, such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and it can be found in wetland areas throughout these regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Lobelia Dortmanna in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Lobelia Dortmanna in a container that is filled with water.
Q: How often should I change the water in which Lobelia Dortmanna grows?
A: The water should be changed every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the size of the container and the number of plants.
Q: Can I grow Lobelia Dortmanna in a pond with fish?
A: Yes, Lobelia Dortmanna can be grown in a pond with fish, as it does not harm aquatic life.
Q: How deep should the water be for Lobelia Dortmanna?
A: The water should be maintained at a depth of 10-30cm.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Inflata
References
- “Lobelia Dortmanna.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j640
- “Lobelia Dortmanna.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/6228/Lobelia-dortmanna/Details
- “Lobelia Dortmanna.” Plant Database. Accessed August 24, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Lobelia+dortmanna
