Lobelia Cardinalis
Lobelia cardinalis
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Asterales›Campanulaceae
📍 North America
A beautiful aquatic plant with round, bright green leaves above and reddish-purple undersides. It grows well in low to medium light without CO2, making it a good choice for lower-tech planted tanks.
Community Photos
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by @isaiahcowell
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Tanks keeping this 🌿
Growing in 2 tanksCommunity tanks featuring Lobelia Cardinalis.
Compatible Livestock
Peaceful algae-eating fish that won't uproot or damage delicate plant leaves
Small, non-destructive shrimp that help control algae without harming plant tissue
Complementary foreground plant with similar low-tech care requirements
Hardy companion plant with similar water parameters and low-light tolerance
Small, gentle fish that won't disturb roots or stems while adding visual interest
Larger shrimp species that efficiently controls algae without damaging plant structure
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, leaf holes or necrosis
Dose liquid fertilizers containing macronutrients (NPK) and micronutrients (iron) 1-2 times weekly; consider root tabs if substrate is poor; increase water change frequency
Algae Overgrowth
Green, brown, or black algae coating leaves and stems; reduced light penetration
Reduce light duration to 6-8 hours daily; increase water changes; add algae-eating fish or shrimp; manually remove affected leaves; ensure adequate plant nutrients to outcompete algae
Melting
Leaves becoming translucent, mushy, or dissolving; stem decay
Improve water quality with frequent partial water changes; ensure stable temperature (23-28°C); reduce light intensity temporarily; trim affected portions and replant healthy stems
Poor Growth
Minimal new leaf development, small leaves, slow stem elongation despite adequate light
Check and adjust water parameters (pH 6.0-7.5); dose comprehensive fertilizers; ensure substrate provides rooting medium; verify light intensity is adequate (8-10 hours daily)
Varieties
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