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Description
Lobelia Gibbosa, also known as Great Basin Blue Lobelia or Gibbous Lobelia, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lobeliaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in areas such as mountain meadows, forests, and streambanks. The plant can grow up to 40 inches in height and produces blue or purple flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Angiosperms |
Class | Eudicots |
Order | Asterales |
Family | Lobeliaceae |
Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Gibbosa has an upright growth habit with multiple stems and leaves that are lance-shaped, toothed, and up to 4 inches long. The plant produces blue or purple flowers that bloom in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers are tubular in shape and have five lobes that spread out from the center. The plant can grow up to 40 inches in height and 18 inches in width, making it a great addition to garden borders or containers.
Care Guide
To ensure the health and growth of Lobelia Gibbosa, it is important to follow these care tips:
Water: This plant requires consistent moisture, so it is important to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Lobelia Gibbosa benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Sunlight: Lobelia Gibbosa prefers partial to full sun exposure, but can tolerate some shade in hotter climates.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Gibbosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and in good health. If necessary, treat with an insecticidal soap or fungicide.
Habitat
Lobelia Gibbosa is native to the western United States and can be found in areas such as mountain meadows, forests, and streambanks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some shade in hotter climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lobelia Gibbosa survive in hot climates?
A: Yes, it can tolerate some shade in hotter climates.
Q: How often should Lobelia Gibbosa be fertilized?
A: Apply fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Lobelia Gibbosa?
A: The plant can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Lobelia Gibbosa?
A: The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Lobelia siphilitica
- Lobelia laxiflora
- Lobelia erinus
References
- “Lobelia gibbosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d147>
- “Lobelia gibbosa.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 18 May 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LOGI2>
- “Lobelia gibbosa.” The Spruce. Accessed 18 May 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/great-basin-lobelia-plant-profile-2132865>