Contents
Description
Lobelia Macrodon, commonly known as Great Blue Lobelia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Campanulaceae. It is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 3 feet tall. Lobelia Macrodon is a herbaceous perennial that produces striking blue flowers in late summer and fall. The plant has a basal rosette of leaves, with the stem leaves being alternate and lance-shaped. The flowers are tubular, with five lobes and a white throat, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
| Species | Lobelia Macrodon |
Appearance
Lobelia Macrodon has basal rosette leaves that are up to 8 inches long and 2 inches wide. The stem leaves are alternate and lance-shaped, growing up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The plant produces striking blue flowers that are tubular, up to 1 inch long, and have five lobes with a white throat. The flowers grow on a spike up to 12 inches long, with up to 50 flowers per spike. The plant blooms in late summer and fall and can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Care Guide
Water
Lobelia Macrodon prefers moist soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Lobelia Macrodon benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilize the plant once a month.
Soil
Lobelia Macrodon prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
Sunlight
Lobelia Macrodon prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it is important to protect the plant from hot afternoon sun, as this can cause the plant to wilt.
Hardiness Zones
Lobelia Macrodon is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Macrodon is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to slugs and snails, which can damage the leaves and flowers. To control slugs and snails, use a slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
Habitat
Lobelia Macrodon is native to eastern North America and can be found in wet meadows, marshes, and along stream banks. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Macrodon a perennial or an annual?
A: Lobelia Macrodon is a herbaceous perennial.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Lobelia Macrodon?
A: Lobelia Macrodon prefers soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Q: How tall can Lobelia Macrodon grow?
A: Lobelia Macrodon can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Q: What is the blooming season for Lobelia Macrodon?
A: Lobelia Macrodon blooms in late summer and fall.
Related Plants
- Lobelia siphilitica
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Lobelia erinus
References
- “Lobelia macrodon.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285465. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.
- “Lobelia macrodon.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/lobelia-macrodon. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.
- “Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia macrodon).” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/gb_lobelia.htm. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.
