• 5 Plants

Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as Cardinal Lobelia, is a popular aquatic plant in the aquarium hobby, prized for its vibrant, red to reddish-green leaves and compact, bushy growth form. It's a beautiful and versatile plant that can be used in both freshwater aquariums and ponds, adding a pop of color to your aquascape.

Key Features of Lobelia cardinalis:

• Appearance: Cardinal Lobelia features small, lance-shaped leaves that range in color from green to deep red or purple, depending on the light intensity and water conditions. The plant tends to have a bushy, compact appearance, making it ideal for midground placement in aquariums.

• Height: Typically, Lobelia cardinalis grows to about 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in height, though it can be kept smaller with regular trimming. It tends to grow more upright, making it an excellent choice for filling in gaps or creating vertical structure in an aquascape.

• Growth Habit: This plant grows slowly but steadily under the right conditions and can form dense, colorful clumps. It is well-suited for both beginner and advanced hobbyists.

Care Requirements:

• Lighting: Lobelia cardinalis prefers medium to high light to bring out its vibrant red coloration. Under lower light, the plant will retain a more greenish appearance, so adequate lighting is essential for achieving the full red effect. However, it’s important to avoid excessive lighting, as this can promote algae growth in the tank.

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

  • Temperature: 68-80°F (20-27°C)

  • Hardness: Soft to medium water (up to 12 dGH)

• Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate is important for the health of Lobelia cardinalis, as it will help the plant absorb nutrients through its roots. A fine gravel or planted-specific soil works well.

• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is best. Too much current can damage the delicate stems, while stagnant water can cause the plant to struggle and hinder its growth.

Maintenance:

• Trimming: Regular trimming will help keep Lobelia cardinalis compact and bushy. Remove any leggy or dying growth to encourage new, healthier shoots to grow. This also helps maintain its attractive, bushy appearance.

• Nutrients: While Lobelia cardinalis can survive on nutrients in the water column, providing it with added fertilizers or liquid plant food will support healthier growth and bring out its full coloration. Using root tabs for additional nutrients is also beneficial.

Propagation:

Lobelia cardinalis can be propagated through cuttings. To do this:

1. Cut a healthy stem just below a node (the point where leaves emerge).

2. Replant the cutting in a nutrient-rich substrate. If kept in proper conditions, the cutting will quickly grow new roots and establish itself as a new plant.

You can also propagate by dividing the plant if it has spread out over a large area. Simply separate the rooted sections and plant them in new locations.

Compatibility:

Lobelia cardinalis is a peaceful plant that works well in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. It can be placed near other plants like Cryptocoryne, Anubias, and Java Fern to create an appealing aquascape. The plant provides shelter and hides for fish and invertebrates while adding vertical structure.

Common Issues:

• Low Light: If not given enough light, Lobelia cardinalis may lose its reddish coloration and become leggy. It may also stop growing if the lighting is insufficient.

• Algae: Excessive light, combined with nutrient imbalances, can lead to algae growth on the leaves of Lobelia cardinalis. To avoid this, try to maintain stable water conditions and avoid overfeeding.

• "Melting": Like many aquatic plants, Lobelia cardinalis may experience "melting" when first introduced to a new aquarium, particularly in low-light conditions or when the plant is adjusting to the tank's parameters. This is usually temporary, and the plant should recover after it acclimates.