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    Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
  • Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
  • Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
  • Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
  • Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
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Lobelia cardinalis

Two-toned green and purple-red leaves on a compact Lobelia midground plant

£7.99
£7.99
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Quick Facts

Rating:

Common name:

Origin: North America

Position in Aquarium: Midground

Grows up to (cm): 20 cm

Pot Size: 5 cm

Growth rate: Medium pace
Description

Lobelia cardinalis is a distinctive aquarium plant with small, spoon-shaped leaves displaying vivid green upper surfaces and contrasting deep purple-red undersides. When planted in groups and viewed from the front, the purple undersides catch the light to create striking colour pockets in the midground of planted layouts.

It grows best with medium light and CO2 supplementation, which encourage compact, bushy growth and the most vivid underside colouration. Without CO2 it can still be grown in a well-lit aquarium but tends to become more elongated and less compact. A nutritious substrate and regular liquid fertilisation keep the leaves vibrant.

Supplied as an established potted plant, Lobelia cardinalis suits aquariums from 50 litres upward in the midground. Its distinctive two-toned leaves and compact habit make it a popular choice for nature aquarium and Dutch aquarium style compositions where colour contrast between plant groups is a key design consideration.
Plant Sizes

You’ll receive a healthy, rooted plant in a pot, similar to those shown. Each one is hand-checked before dispatch.
Shipping

Same-day dispatch on orders placed before 4pm, Monday to Friday. Tracked 24 Service from £4.99, DPD Express from £6.99.
Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica
Lobelia cardinalis (Scarlet lobelia) Tropica

Product FAQs

Helpful details before you buy.

Does Lobelia cardinalis need CO2?

CO2 is recommended for the most compact, bushy growth and vivid purple underside colouration. Without it the plant can be grown but tends to grow more loosely and with less pronounced colour.

What light level does it need?

Medium light is the minimum. Better light combined with CO2 produces the most compact, colourful growth. In low light it becomes elongated and less attractive.

Can I see the purple underside when the plant is growing?

Yes. When planted in groups, the purple undersides of the leaves are clearly visible from the front of the aquarium, creating a distinctive colour effect.

How large does it grow?

It typically reaches 10–20 cm in height, making it well suited to the midground of most planted aquariums.

Is it easy to propagate?

Yes. Side shoots develop naturally and can be separated and replanted. Stem cuttings can also be taken and rooted in the substrate.