Cardinal Plant care guide
Cardinal Plant (Lobelia cardinalis) — medium light, 15-26 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
Cardinal Plant (Lobelia cardinalis) is an aquatic plant of the family Campanulaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as a beginner-level species. It is typically grown under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection on nutrient-rich aquasoil. A striking plant with bright green leaves on top and vivid red-purple undersides. Grows more compact underwater than in its emersed form. An excellent midground choice that adds color contrast without demanding high-tech equipment.
Taxonomy
- Family: Campanulaceae
- Genus: Lobelia
- Scientific name: Lobelia cardinalis
- Common synonyms: Cardinal Flower, Lobelia cardinalis
Habitat
Lobelia cardinalis (Campanulaceae) is a North-American wetland plant that grows on damp banks, marshes and the margins of streams from southern Canada to Central America. It develops compact submersed growth when adapted to aquarium conditions. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from North America.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 15-26 °C (59-79 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 30 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
Midground stem with rosette-like clusters of leaves; bright light and CO2 maintain the small compact submersed form, while emersed plants grow taller and produce red flower spikes. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using nutrient-rich aquasoil.
Propagation
Propagated by tip cuttings; replanted tops root reliably in nutrient-rich substrate within a week. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: stem cuttings.
Common issues
Transition from emersed to submersed growth is slow and old leaves usually melt; stable parameters and patience allow the new submersed leaves to develop.