Contents
Description
Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace is a popular annual plant that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the Lobeliaceae family and is known for its vibrant blue flowers that bloom in summer. This plant is commonly used in hanging baskets, window boxes, and as a bedding plant due to its stunning appearance and easy to care for nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Lobeliaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace is a compact plant that grows up to 25 cm tall and 20 cm wide. It has small, dark green leaves that are 1-2 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide. The plant produces an abundance of vibrant blue flowers that are 1-2 cm long and have a five-lobed shape. The flowers bloom from early summer until the first frost and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Remove affected plants and avoid planting in the same spot.
Habitat
Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace is native to South Africa and is commonly found in rocky, well-draining soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace?
A: Water your plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace?
A: Plant Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace?
A: Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: How do I control aphids on my Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace?
A: Use an insecticidal soap to control aphids on your plant.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Dortmanna
- Lobelia Tupa
References
- “Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c684.
- “Lobelia Erinus.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/lobeliaerinus.htm.
- “Lobelia Erinus Crystal Palace.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/lobelia-erinus-crystal-palace-edging-lobelia.
