Stoffels Lobelia cardinalis

Stoffels Plant – Lobelia cardinalis

Overview

Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as Cardinal Plant, is a versatile aquatic plant cherished for its vibrant green foliage and striking red hues on its stems and undersides, depending on light intensity. Native to North America, this plant is a popular choice for both aquariums and paludariums. Its compact growth and dense leaves make it ideal for midground placement, creating a striking contrast with other plants in aquascapes. Easy to care for and adaptable, Lobelia cardinalis thrives in a wide range of water conditions, making it suitable for beginners and experts alike.

Key Features

• Bright Green Leaves: Provides a fresh and lively look in aquascapes, with red accents in high-light setups.
• Compact Growth: Dense, bushy growth pattern makes it perfect for midground use or as a filler plant.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for submerged growth in aquariums or emersed growth in paludariums.
• Hardy and Adaptable: Tolerates a variety of water parameters and lighting conditions.

Care Requirements

• Lighting: Medium to high light brings out the red coloration on stems and leaves; low light results in greener foliage.
• CO2: CO2 supplementation is not essential but improves growth rate and vibrancy.
• Water Parameters: Thrives in a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and temperatures of 18-28°C. Adaptable to soft and moderately hard water.
• Trimming: Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and maintains a neat appearance.

Planting Tips

• Substrate Planting: Plant individual stems in nutrient-rich substrate. A layer of fine gravel or sand can help anchor it.
• Midground Placement: Perfect for the midground, where its lush foliage can create depth and contrast with other plants.
• Propagation: Propagates easily through stem cuttings. Cut healthy stems and replant them to expand coverage.