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Description
Lobelia Purpurascens, also known as Purple Cardinal Flower, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lobelia genus. It is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, swamps, and stream banks. The plant produces tall spikes of flowers that range from purple to pink in color. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Purpurascens can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The plant has lance-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers grow on tall spikes that can reach up to 4 feet in height. The flowers are tubular in shape and grow up to 1 inch long. They range in color from purple to pink and have a white throat. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall.
Care Guide
Water: Lobelia Purpurascens prefers consistently moist soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears.
Soil: Lobelia Purpurascens prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, provide some shade in the afternoon.
Hardiness Zones: Lobelia Purpurascens is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Purpurascens is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis blight. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overhead watering. If pests or diseases do occur, treat them with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Lobelia Purpurascens is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, swamps, and stream banks. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding. The plant provides habitat and food for a variety of insects and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Purpurascens toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Lobelia Purpurascens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with enough water and nutrients.
Q: How often should Lobelia Purpurascens be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Lobelia Purpurascens be grown in full shade?
A: No, the plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Inflata
- Lobelia Dortmanna
References
- “Lobelia Purpurascens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282345. Accessed 16 Sept. 2021.
- “Lobelia Purpurascens.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/lobelia-purpurascens. Accessed 16 Sept. 2021.
- “Purple Cardinal Flower.” Garden Design, www.gardendesign.com/flowers/purple-cardinal-flower.html. Accessed 16 Sept. 2021.
