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Description
Lobelia Divaricata, commonly known as the Great Blue Lobelia, is a herbaceous perennial native to North America. It is a member of the Campanulaceae family and is characterized by its bright blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and has a spread of up to two feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
The Lobelia Divaricata has lance-shaped green leaves that are serrated, and it produces clusters of bright blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers are two-lipped and tubular, and they can grow up to one inch long. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and has a spread of up to two feet. Its stem is hairy and can be green or reddish-brown.
Care Guide
Lobelia Divaricata requires moderate care and attention. It grows best in moist, well-drained soil and in partial shade to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires partial shade to full sun to grow well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lobelia Divaricata is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can damage the plant by eating the leaves and flowers.
- Aphids: Aphids can infest the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves.
- Mildew: Mildew can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
- Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Habitat
Lobelia Divaricata can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and stream banks. It prefers moist soils and is often found growing near water sources.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lobelia Divaricata?
A: Lobelia Divaricata requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry spells. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can Lobelia Divaricata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Lobelia Divaricata can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Q: How tall can Lobelia Divaricata grow?
A: Lobelia Divaricata can grow up to three feet tall.
Q: Does Lobelia Divaricata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lobelia Divaricata is attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Inflata
References
- “Lobelia Divaricata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277352. Accessed 8 Nov. 2021.
- “Lobelia Divaricata.” North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/lobelia-divaricata. Accessed 8 Nov. 2021.
- “Great Blue Lobelia.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/savanna/plants/grt_blue_lobelia.html. Accessed 8 Nov. 2021.
