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Description
Lobelia Heterophylla, also known as the variable-leaved lobelia, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found growing in wet meadows, swamps, and along stream banks. It is an attractive plant that produces beautiful blue or purple flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Heterophylla can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are alternate and can vary in size, shape, and texture. The leaves at the base of the plant are larger and toothed, while the upper leaves are smaller and smooth. The flowers are tubular and range in color from light blue to deep purple. They bloom in the summer and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
To care for Lobelia Heterophylla, it is important to provide it with plenty of water, especially during hot and dry periods. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can also benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Heterophylla can be susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and to remove any diseased or damaged leaves.
Habitat
Lobelia Heterophylla is native to North America and can be found growing in wet meadows, swamps, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lobelia Heterophylla grow in full sun?
A: While this plant prefers partial shade, it can tolerate some full sun exposure.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lobelia Heterophylla?
A: It is recommended to fertilize this plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Lobelia Heterophylla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as they are kept moist and provided with partial shade.
Q: What is the blooming period for Lobelia Heterophylla?
A: This plant blooms in the summer, typically from June to September.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Inflata
References
- “Lobelia Heterophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277491.
- “Lobelia Heterophylla.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/vb_lobelia.htm.
- “Lobelia Heterophylla.” North Carolina State University, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lobelia-heterophylla/
