Contents
Description
Lobelia Inflata, also known as Indian Tobacco, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found growing in fields, pastures, and along roadsides. The plant is highly valued for its medicinal properties and is used to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledons |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Inflata grows up to 2 feet tall and has thin, green stems with small leaves. The flowers are small and blue, with a white or yellow center. The plant blooms from July to September and produces small, oval-shaped capsules that contain numerous seeds. The seeds are very small and can be easily dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Lobelia Inflata requires regular watering, especially during dry weather. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. It grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Lobelia Inflata is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Inflata is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and to remove any dead or diseased foliage.
Habitat
Lobelia Inflata is commonly found in open fields, pastures, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is native to North America and can be found growing throughout the United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Inflata safe for human consumption?
A: While Lobelia Inflata has medicinal properties, it should only be consumed under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Q: Is Lobelia Inflata easy to grow?
A: Lobelia Inflata is relatively easy to grow and can be a great addition to any garden.
Q: How long does Lobelia Inflata take to bloom?
A: Lobelia Inflata blooms from July to September.
Q: How should I fertilize Lobelia Inflata?
A: Lobelia Inflata should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Erinus
References
- “Lobelia Inflata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Available at: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286202&isprofile=0&. Accessed 22 May 2021.
- “Lobelia Inflata.” University of Michigan – Dearborn. Available at: https://www.umd.umich.edu/faculty_staff/Field_Guide/Plants/Lobelia_inflata.htm. Accessed 22 May 2021.
- “Lobelia Inflata.” North Carolina State University – Extension Gardener. Available at: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/indian-tobacco-lobelia-inflata. Accessed 22 May 2021.
