Lobelia cardinalis

Lobelia cardinalis, scientific name Lobelia cardinalis. Widespread throughout North and South America from the United States to Colombia. Grows on wet marshy soils along the banks of rivers, ponds and ditches. This plant has been known since the 17th century, when it was brought to Europe and planted in gardens at the courts of royal people. Much later it passed into the category of forage plants for the needs of agriculture. AT 1960-x years in the Netherlands was first used in the design of the Dutch aquarium (decoration style). Since then, it has been actively used in the aquarium trade.

This plant belongs to the extensive genus Lobelia, numbering about 365 species, differing from each other in height, shape and size of leaves. In addition, many subspecies and varieties have been bred, which only individual specialists can distinguish. Therefore, several species can be hidden under one name, or vice versa – several names will refer to the same plant. For example, Lobelia cardinalis is also known as Lobelia purple, Lobelia brilliant, Lobelia mexican, etc.

Can grow both above and below water. Above the water, that is, on land, the plant reaches a significant size (more than a meter) due to the long stem, from which lanceolate leaves extend. The main decoration is bright scarlet (purple) flowers, which were loved by the European nobility in the late Middle Ages. When underwater, Lobelia looks different. Green leaves also extend from a straight vertical stem, but they have a rounded oval shape, and the plant itself is much smaller (up to 30 cm in height), which allows it to be used in relatively small aquariums from 120 liters.

Unpretentious and easy to maintain, able to adapt to a wide range of conditions. Not demanding on the mineral composition of the soil, temperature and degree of illumination. Lobelia cardinalis is an excellent choice for the beginner aquarist.