Contents
Description
Lobelia Tomentosa, also known as the Hairy Lobelia, is a beautiful and unique plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to North America, particularly in the Eastern and Central parts of the United States. This perennial plant is herbaceous and has a woody base. It can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The flowers of the Lobelia Tomentosa are trumpet-shaped and bloom from July to September. They come in a variety of colors, including purple, blue, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
Appearance
The Lobelia Tomentosa is a stunning plant that has a unique appearance. It has hairy stems and leaves, which give it a soft and velvety texture. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 6 inches long. They are dark green in color and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers of the Lobelia Tomentosa are trumpet-shaped and grow in clusters on the top of the stem. They are 1-2 inches long and come in a variety of colors. The plant blooms in midsummer to early fall and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Taking care of the Lobelia Tomentosa is not difficult, but it does require some attention. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:- Water: The Lobelia Tomentosa prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients throughout the growing season.- Soil: The Lobelia Tomentosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does not like heavy clay soils.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full sun, but it can also tolerate some shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: The Lobelia Tomentosa is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lobelia Tomentosa is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:- Pests: The plant can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Diseases: The Lobelia Tomentosa can be affected by root rot, powdery mildew, and rust. Make sure to provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
The Lobelia Tomentosa is native to North America and can be found in the Eastern and Central parts of the United States. It grows in wet meadows, swamps, and along streams and ponds. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Lobelia Tomentosa a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the Lobelia Tomentosa is a great plant for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
Q: Can the Lobelia Tomentosa grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers, but it will require more frequent watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Lobelia Tomentosa?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant the Lobelia Tomentosa?
A: The best time to plant the Lobelia Tomentosa is in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Lobelia Cardinalis- Lobelia Siphilitica- Lobelia Inflata- Lobelia Dortmanna- Lobelia Urechites
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lobelia tomentosa. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282308- Native Plant Trust. (n.d.). Lobelia tomentosa. Retrieved from https://www.nativeplanttrust.org/plants/lobelia-tomentosa/
