Lobelia Cardinalis

Lobelia cardinalis 'Mini' is a compact, slow-to-medium-growing mutation of the classic North American cardinal plant. It features smaller, rounded bright green leaves, a low bushy growth habit, and a beginner-friendly nature that thrives without requiring CO₂ injection.

Physical Characteristics & Placement

• Size: Stays short, reaching roughly 3 to 10 cm in height.
• Appearance: Features small, round, vibrant green leaves spaced closely on short stems. Undersides can show subtle purple hues under strong light.
• Aquarium Placement: Ideal for the foreground or low midground layers, often used to create neat green bush clusters or distinct "streets" in Dutch-style aquascapes.

Care Requirements

• Lighting: Low to high; moderate-to-high lighting encourages tighter, denser, and more compact growth.
• CO₂ & Nutrients: CO₂ injection is not required but helps achieve faster, tighter leaf formation. Benefits greatly from a nutrient-rich substrate and regular liquid fertilizer.
• Water Parameters: Thrives in temperatures from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) and a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.

Maintenance & Propagation

• Trimming: Highly tolerant of frequent pruning; cutting the tops encourages horizontal branching and a fuller shape.
• Propagation: Easily propagated by cutting healthy side shoots or stem tips and replanting them directly into the substrate.