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Description
Lobelia Siphilitica, commonly known as the Great Blue Lobelia, is a perennial wildflower that belongs to the Lobeliaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, swamps, and streambanks. Lobelia Siphilitica can grow up to 3 feet tall and has blue, tubular flowers that bloom from July to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Lobeliaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
Lobelia Siphilitica has a tall and erect stem with lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. The leaves are dark green in color and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are arranged in a dense, elongated spike and are about 1 inch long. They have a bright blue color and a tubular shape, with five petals fused together at the base. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Water
Lobelia Siphilitica prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Lobelia Siphilitica does not require heavy fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be beneficial in the spring.
Soil
Lobelia Siphilitica prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also grow in heavy clay soils, but it may require additional watering.
Sunlight
Lobelia Siphilitica prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can also tolerate full shade.
Hardiness Zones
Lobelia Siphilitica is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Siphilitica is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust, which can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves. To prevent rust, it is important to keep the plant’s foliage dry and to remove any infected leaves.
Habitat
Lobelia Siphilitica is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, swamps, and streambanks. It prefers moist soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Siphilitica a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Lobelia Siphilitica is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: How often should I water my Lobelia Siphilitica?
A: Lobelia Siphilitica prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: Can Lobelia Siphilitica grow in heavy clay soil?
A: Yes, Lobelia Siphilitica can grow in heavy clay soil, but it may require additional watering.
Q: Is Lobelia Siphilitica a good plant for a rain garden?
A: Yes, Lobelia Siphilitica is a great plant for a rain garden, as it prefers moist soil and can tolerate wet conditions.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Inflata
- Lobelia Dortmanna
- Lobelia Tupa
References
- “Lobelia siphilitica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 6, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280666&isprofile=0&basic=lobelia%20siphilitica.
- “Lobelia siphilitica.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed August 6, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lobelia-siphilitica/.
- “Great Blue Lobelia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 6, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LOSI.
