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Lobelia Cardinalis Aquarium Plant: Complete Guide and Care Tips
Are you looking for a stunning aquarium plant that will add color and vibrancy to your underwater world? Look no further than Lobelia Cardinalis.
This beautiful plant is popular among aquarists thanks to its brilliant red hue and ease of care.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Lobelia Cardinalis, from its origins and characteristics to the best ways to care for it in your aquarium.
Origins of Lobelia Cardinalis
Lobelia Cardinalis, also known as cardinal flower, is native to North America.
It grows naturally in wetlands, along riverbanks and streams – areas where water flows continuously.
Its vibrant red flowers bloom during the summer months but have been adapted by growers into various colors such as pink or blue depending on the environment they are grown in.
Characteristics of Lobelia Cardinalis Aquarium Plant
- Lobelia cardinalis has deep green leaves that can grow up to 5 inches long when submerged under water
- The foliage is characterized by fine feathering with a slight purplish hue underneath
- The plants can grow up 18 inches tall above the surface of the water if provided with adequate lighting
- The flowers resemble little trumpets measuring between half an inch or one inch long
Caring for Your Lobelia Cardinalis Aquarium Plant: Essential Tips
If you’re interested in adding this stunning plant species into your aquatic garden setup below are some key tips:
Lighting & Temperature Requirements:
To ensure optimal growth conditions for your lobelias start by providing them with moderate to high lighting levels.
Lobelia cardinals require at least 8 hours of light per day, but they can thrive in up to 12 hours when sufficient CO2 is provided.
The recommended temperature range for Lobelia Cardinals ranges between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit (22-28 degrees Celsius).
Water Parameters:
If you want your plants to grow, it’s essential to maintain healthy water parameters.
A pH level within the range of 6-7.5 is best for lobelias, with soft to moderately hard water being ideal.
Nitrate levels should be kept at a minimum – ideally below 30 ppm – since higher levels can lead to algae growth.
Substrate Requirements:
You’ll need proper substrate like sand or gravel that will anchor your plants in place while providing them with an environment conducive for root development.
Fertilizer & CO2 Dosage:
To encourage optimal growth and vibrant coloration, supplement your plant’s diet with quality fertilizers containing macro and micronutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), iron(Fe).
Carbon dioxide supplementation is essential if you want these plants’ leaves not only green but also have that reddish hue which they are renowned for
Common Issues When Growing Lobelia Cardinalis Aquarium Plant
- Lack of Light: The plant requires adequate lighting conditions in order to thrive and produce their characteristic red flowers; without this, the leaves may start yellowing leading ultimately dieback of the whole stem.
- Inadequate Water Quality: Poor water quality can cause discoloration or stunting of plant growth because it affects their ability to absorb nutrients from the substrate or fertilizers added..
- Crowding of Other Plants: If your lobelias are overcrowded by other plants, they may not receive sufficient light or nutrients leading to low growth and weak foliage.
Conclusion
Lobelia Cardinalis is a beautiful aquarium plant that can add stunning coloration and vibrancy to your underwater world.
With proper care, it’s easy to grow this species in an aquatic garden setup.
Ensure you follow the above guidelines, including lighting requirements, substrate needs, water parameters like pH levels and temperature ranges within which these plants thrive best.
Following these tips will ensure that your lobelias grow healthy and vibrant for years to come.
