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Description
Lobelia Preslii, commonly known as Presl’s Lobelia, is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found growing in rocky mountain slopes, meadows, and open forests.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Preslii grows up to 2 feet tall and has a clumping growth habit. Its leaves are lance-shaped and can be up to 3 inches long. The plant produces bright blue or purple flowers with five petals that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
Lobelia Preslii prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but may require more water. It is hardy in zones 5-9. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect Lobelia Preslii include aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. To prevent pests and diseases, keep the plant healthy and well-watered, and remove any infected leaves or plants.
Habitat
Lobelia Preslii is native to the western United States, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. It can be found growing in rocky mountain slopes, meadows, and open forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lobelia Preslii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lobelia Preslii can be grown in containers as long as they are kept consistently moist and provided with partial shade.
Q: Is Lobelia Preslii poisonous?
A: Yes, Lobelia Preslii contains alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. It is recommended to keep the plant away from children and pets.
Q: Can Lobelia Preslii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Lobelia Preslii can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: How often should Lobelia Preslii be fertilized?
A: Lobelia Preslii should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Erinus
References
- “Lobelia Preslii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n460.
- “Lobelia Preslii.” Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOPR.
- “Lobelia Preslii.” Washington Native Plant Society, www.wnps.org/plant-directory/details/lobelia-preslii.
