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Description
Lobelia Sublibera, also known as the Great Blue Lobelia, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. It belongs to the Campanulaceae family and is characterized by its blue-purple flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall. This plant is a favorite of gardeners and hummingbirds alike, making it a popular choice for both ornamental and ecological purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
The Lobelia Sublibera grows up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are lanceolate, with a serrated margin and grow up to 8 inches long. The plant’s blue-purple flowers grow in terminal racemes, and each flower has a tubular shape with five lobes. They bloom in late summer and fall, making them an attractive option for gardeners looking to add color to their autumn landscape.
Care Guide
Proper care is crucial to ensure the healthy growth of the Lobelia Sublibera. Here are some tips:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Grow the plant in well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Lobelia Sublibera prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lobelia Sublibera is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by certain issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Pests: Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant.
- Diseases: Crown rot and powdery mildew are common fungal diseases that can affect the Lobelia Sublibera.
Habitat
The Lobelia Sublibera is native to moist meadows, stream banks, and swamps in North America. It prefers soils that are high in organic matter and that are consistently moist. It is also a popular choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds to their landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lobelia Sublibera toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the Lobelia Sublibera is toxic to pets if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Q: Can I grow Lobelia Sublibera in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Lobelia Sublibera in a container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots, and use a well-draining soil mix.
Q: Can I propagate Lobelia Sublibera from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate Lobelia Sublibera from stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lobelia Sublibera?
A: Fertilize Lobelia Sublibera every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Lobelia Siphilitica
- Lobelia Inflata
- Lobelia Dortmanna
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Lobelia sublibera. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c707
- Gardenia. (2021). Lobelia sublibera (Great Blue Lobelia). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/lobelia-sublibera-great-blue-lobelia
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Lobelia sublibera. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lobelia-sublibera/
