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Description
Lobelia Sessilifolia, also known as Prairie Lobelia or Low Lobelia, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lobeliaceae family. It is native to the eastern United States and thrives in moist to wet environments such as prairies, savannas, and wet meadows. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and blooms in the summer, producing small blue to purple flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Lobeliaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Sessilifolia has slender stems that are green to reddish in color and grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate in shape and range from 1 to 3 inches long. They are dark green and smooth on the upper surface and pale green with fine hairs on the lower surface. The flowers are small and tubular, measuring about 0.5 inches long, and are blue to purple in color. They bloom in the summer and are clustered at the top of the stem, forming a spike-like inflorescence.
Care Guide
Lobelia Sessilifolia prefers moist to wet environments and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. It grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8, but may require mulching in colder regions to protect the roots from freezing.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Sessilifolia is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Lobelia Sessilifolia is native to the eastern United States and can be found in prairies, savannas, wet meadows, and other moist to wet environments. It is often seen growing in association with other prairie plants such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and blazing stars.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Sessilifolia a good plant for attracting wildlife?
A: Yes, Lobelia Sessilifolia is a great plant for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Lobelia Sessilifolia tolerate drought?
A: No, Lobelia Sessilifolia prefers moist to wet environments and may not survive prolonged drought.
Q: Does Lobelia Sessilifolia have any medicinal uses?
A: Some Native American tribes used Lobelia species for medicinal purposes, but the plant is not commonly used in modern medicine.
Q: Does Lobelia Sessilifolia spread by rhizomes?
A: No, Lobelia Sessilifolia does not spread by rhizomes and is not considered invasive.
Related Plants
- Lobelia cardinalis
- Lobelia siphilitica
- Lobelia inflata
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Lobelia sessilifolia
- North Carolina State University: Lobelia sessilifolia
- University of Wisconsin-Green Bay: Lobelia sessilifolia
