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Description
Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the Lobelia family. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It is known for its beautiful, bright pink flowers that bloom in summer and last until fall. The flowers are about 1-2 inches long and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
The Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant has lush green leaves that are about 3-4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a slightly serrated edge. The plant produces spikes of bright pink flowers that are about 1-2 inches long. These flowers have a tubular shape and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms from mid-summer until fall.
Care Guide
Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant requires special care to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of this beautiful plant:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can add compost or peat moss to the soil to improve its quality.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
- Whiteflies: These small, winged insects feed on the leaves, causing a sticky residue to form on the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves and stems.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can lead to the plant’s death.
Habitat
Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, meadows, and along streams. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant grow in containers?
A: Yes, Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant can be grown in containers, but make sure the soil stays moist and the plant gets enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant?
A: You can propagate the plant by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall and rooting them in moist soil.
Q: Is Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Erinus
References
- “Lobelia Speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b377.
- “Lobelia Speciosa.” Plant Care Today, 1 Aug. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/lobelia-speciosa.
- “Lobelia Speciosa Pink Elephant.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/lobelia-speciosa-pink-elephant.
