Contents
Description
Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue is a popular annual plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely grown in gardens around the world. The plant produces beautiful blue flowers that bloom from summer to fall. The flowers are small, but they are arranged in dense clusters that create a stunning display. The plant grows up to 6-12 inches tall and 6-8 inches wide, making it an ideal choice for borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue has a compact growth habit and produces beautiful blue flowers that are about 1/2 inch in diameter. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a white center. The plant has green leaves that are small and narrow. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant blooms from summer to fall and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue is relatively easy to care for and requires moderate maintenance. Here are some tips to help you grow this beautiful plant in your garden:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to poor flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Here are some tips to help you prevent and control these common problems:
- Aphids: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider mites: Spray the plant with water to remove spider mites. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control severe infestations.
- Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering to prevent powdery mildew. Use a fungicide to control severe infestations.
Habitat
Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue is native to South Africa and grows in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forest edges. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue grow in containers?
A: Yes, Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue is an excellent choice for containers and hanging baskets.Q: Does Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant produces flowers that attract bees and butterflies to the garden.Q: How often should I water Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue?
A: The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry.Q: Can I grow Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue from seeds?
A: Yes, you can grow Lobelia Erinus Cambridge Blue from seeds. Sow the seeds indoors in early spring and transplant the seedlings outdoors after the last frost.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in growing in your garden:
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Lobelia siphilitica
- Lobelia laxiflora
- Lobelia tupa
- Lobelia speciosa
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Lobelia Erinus. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP524
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Lobelia Erinus. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/20782/lobelia-erinus/details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lobelia Erinus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=260350
