Contents
Description
Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran is a small annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is widely grown for its blue, purple, or white flowers that bloom in the summer and autumn months. The plant reaches a height of 15-30 cm and a spread of 10-15 cm. The leaves are small, narrow, and toothed, and grow in a rosette at the base of the plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran has a small, compact growth habit with delicate leaves and vibrant flowers. The flowers are bell-shaped and grow in dense clusters at the tips of the stems. They can be blue, purple, or white and have a white center. The plant blooms from summer to autumn and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Water: Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran prefers consistent moisture, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week and more often in hot weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight: Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 9-11 but can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. To prevent powdery mildew, provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran is native to South Africa and grows in rocky areas and grasslands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran can be grown in a container as long as it has good drainage and is fertilized regularly.
Q: Does Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran need deadheading?
A: Yes, to encourage continuous blooming, it is recommended to deadhead the spent flowers.
Q: How can I propagate Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran?
A: Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran can be propagated by taking stem cuttings or by sowing seeds in the spring.
Q: Can Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran tolerate drought?
A: No, Lobelia Erinus Mrs Clibran prefers consistent moisture and will not tolerate drought.
Related Plants
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Lobelia siphilitica
- Lobelia laxiflora
- Lobelia tupa
References
- “Lobelia Erinus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=252109&isprofile=0&basic=Lobelia%20erinus.
- “Lobelia Erinus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14369/i-Lobelia-erinus-i/Details.
- “Lobelia Erinus.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp118.
