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Description
Lobelia Pinifolia, commonly known as Pine-leaf Lobelia, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to the eastern and southeastern parts of the United States, where it grows along rocky slopes, dry woods, and prairies. The plant is characterized by its elongated, needle-like leaves and beautiful blue-violet flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. It can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, making it an excellent addition to rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
The Pine-leaf Lobelia has thin, needle-like leaves that grow up to 2 inches long and 1/16 inch wide. They are bright green and arranged alternately along the stem. The plant produces beautiful blue-violet flowers that grow in clusters on top of the stem. Each flower is tubular and has five lobes that flare outwards. They bloom from late spring to early summer and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, making it a perfect addition to rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Care Guide
Water: Lobelia Pinifolia prefers evenly moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: You can fertilize Pine-leaf Lobelia once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. It also prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5.
Sunlight: Lobelia Pinifolia prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in hot summer months, it needs some shade to prevent it from drying out.
Hardiness Zones: The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pine-leaf Lobelia is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. To prevent it, make sure to plant your Lobelia in well-draining soil and avoid overcrowding.
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. You can control them by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can chew on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing damage. You can control them by using beer traps or copper barriers around the plant.
Habitat
The Pine-leaf Lobelia is native to the eastern and southeastern parts of the United States, where it grows along rocky slopes, dry woods, and prairies. It prefers well-draining, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-8 and prefers partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pine-leaf Lobelia grow in containers?
A: Yes, Pine-leaf Lobelia can grow in containers. Make sure to use well-draining soil and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Pine-leaf Lobelia?
A: You can fertilize Pine-leaf Lobelia once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for Pine-leaf Lobelia?
A: Pine-leaf Lobelia prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5.
Q: How do I control aphids on my Pine-leaf Lobelia?
A: You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis (Cardinal Flower)
- Lobelia Siphilitica (Great Blue Lobelia)
- Lobelia Erinus (Edging Lobelia)
- Lobelia Tupa (Devil’s Tobacco)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden
- Gardenia
- BHG
- Plant Finder
