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Lobelia pedunculata
Matted Pratia
Lobelia pedunculata
Lobelia pedunculata, commonly known as Trailing Lobelia, is a perennial herb native to Australia. It features delicate, trailing stems adorned with small, vibrant blue or white flowers. This plant is often used in hanging baskets or as a ground cover, adding a touch of elegance to gardens.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Estimated Plant Lifespan3 years lifespan
Sun Requirements4-6 hours direct sunlight (Partial Sun)
Pollination

Method: animal

Notes: Primarily pollinated by insects.

Watering Requirements

Method: Top watering

Frequency: Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.

Notes: Water more frequently during hot, dry periods.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Maintenance: Misting during dry conditions can be beneficial.

Cleaning RequirementsRegularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Prune lightly to maintain shape and promote bushier growth.
Temperature Range

Min: 5°C

Max: 30°C

Alternative NamesTrailing Pratia, Blue Star Creeper, blue lawn-lobelia, Pratia pedunculata

Cultivars

Price: $5.55
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Viola hederacea
Ivy Leaved Violet
Viola hederacea
Both prefer similar moist soil conditions and partial shade, creating a visually appealing and ecologically compatible groundcover.
Dichondra repens
kidney weed
Dichondra repens
They share similar growing habits and moisture requirements, complementing each other in a mixed groundcover display.
Poa labillardierei
common tussock grass
Poa labillardierei

Tussock Grass is an aggressive competitor for water and nutrients and may overgrow Lobelia pedunculata.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails can feed on the leaves and stems of Lobelia pedunculata, creating holes and potentially killing young plants. Symptoms include visible slime trails and damage to foliage.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest Lobelia pedunculata, causing distorted growth, yellowing leaves, and the presence of a sticky substance called honeydew. They can be found clustered on stems and undersides of leaves.

Steps:

    • Take 5-10cm long stem cuttings from a healthy, non-flowering plant.
    • Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving a few at the top.
    • Dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
    • Insert the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining potting mix.
    • Water gently and cover with a plastic bag or place in a propagator to maintain humidity.
    • Keep in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight.
    • After a few weeks, check for root development by gently tugging on the cutting. If it resists, roots have formed.
    • Transplant the rooted cutting into a larger pot or directly into the garden.

Neem Oil

Effective for controlling aphids and other soft-bodied pests.

Diatomaceous Earth

Can be used around plants to deter slugs and snails.

Seaweed Solution

Provides trace elements and stimulates root growth.