Contents
Description
Lobelia Chamaepitys, commonly known as dwarf tobacco or ground pine, is a small perennial plant that belongs to the family Campanulaceae. It is native to Europe and northern Africa and can grow up to 15 cm in height. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and has needle-like leaves that resemble pine needles. Lobelia Chamaepitys is often used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Chamaepitys has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. Its needle-like leaves grow in a rosette pattern and are a bluish-green color. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and have a tubular shape. The flowers are held on thin stems that rise above the foliage. The plant has a small, compact size and can grow up to 15 cm in height. Lobelia Chamaepitys is an attractive addition to rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Care Guide
Lobelia Chamaepitys requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
- Sunlight: Lobelia Chamaepitys prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate hot and dry conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Chamaepitys is generally free of pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems to watch out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves of the plant. Use slug pellets or handpick the pests to control their population.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellowish-orange spots on the leaves of the plant. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. Improve air circulation and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Lobelia Chamaepitys is native to Europe and northern Africa and can be found growing in rocky and sandy areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions. It is often used as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Chamaepitys a hardy plant?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: How tall does Lobelia Chamaepitys grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 15 cm in height.
Q: What kind of soil does Lobelia Chamaepitys prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Lobelia Chamaepitys?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Lobelia erinus
- Lobelia siphilitica
- Lobelia tupa
References
- “Lobelia Chamaepitys.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282074.
- “Lobelia Chamaepitys.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16502/Lobelia-chamaepitys/Details.
- “Lobelia Chamaepitys.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/lobelia-chamaepitys-plant-profile-5079259.
