Water Lobelia (Lobelia dortmanna)

Water Lobelia

Lobelia dortmanna

Submerged aquatic beauty with delicate spires of blue blooms. Aquatic herbaceous perennial; common name: Water Lobelia.

Full sun
N/A/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; requires clear, unpolluted water to allow light penetration to submerged foliage
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Watering Requires consistent, cool freshwater; avoid stagnant or nutrient-overloaded water to prevent algal blooms
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Temperature Thrives in cool temperate aquatic conditions; avoid water temperatures exceeding 22°C to prevent stress and reduced growth
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Submerged linear, thread-like bright green leaves arranged in basal rosettes
  • Flower: Pale blue to white, five-lobed bell-shaped blooms on upright emergent stems
  • Stem: Slender, hollow flowering stems rise vertically from submerged basal growth
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain stable water level; ensure adequate water circulation for oxygenation

Fertilization

Diluted aquatic plant fertilizer once monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive algal growth; apply directly to the substrate near basal rosettes

Dechlorinated aquarium water runoff:Use water from weekly freshwater aquarium changes to supplement nutrients; avoid overapplication to prevent algal blooms
Pruning
  • Remove yellowing or decaying submerged leaves to maintain water clarity and reduce nutrient buildup
  • Trim spent flowering stems after bloom to prevent organic matter from decomposing in the water
  • Thin overcrowded basal rosettes in spring to improve light access and water circulation
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Mildly toxic; ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy

Humans: Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and abdominal pain

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aquatic ornamental for pond gardens; provides shelter and foraging habitat for small aquatic invertebrates