1. Introduction
Child: Professor, you know how the aquatic world is often compared to an underwater Eden with lush greenery and vibrant aquatic life? I’ve been curious about the plants that create this watery paradise. Can you teach me about one such plant?
Professor: Ah, a garden of earthly delights! You know, Hieronymus Bosch would have so loved the aquatic world. One such green wonder that comes to my mind is the Lobelia, or more specifically, the Green Lobelia. Let me share with you some insights into this lovely aquatic greenery.
2. Characteristics
Child: When I look at Green Lobelia, it makes me think of the ferns in Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream nourishing the realm of fairies. Can you tell me more about how it looks and grows?
Professor: Your literary inclinations enchant me, dear child. Green Lobelia, scientifically known as Lobelia cardinalis, has delicate, narrow leaves sprouting from its stem. The leaves can vary in color from green to reddish tones. As for their growth, they can reach a height of 40 cm, giving your aquarium some visual depth. Perfect for an underwater fairy realm, indeed! Take note that the contours formed by the Green Lobelia leaves depend on the planting position and aquarium size.
Child: Can I make an entire underwater forest with Green Lobelia in my aquarium?
Professor: Like a miniature Sherwood forest from the tales of Robin Hood, you can create captivating layouts for various aquarium sizes. However, the growth habits of Green Lobelia vary depending on factors such as light and nutrient availability. As this plant can tolerate various water conditions, it is a suitable choice for small to medium-sized aquariums.
3. Cultivation
Child: Do I have to be a seasoned gardener like Candide from Voltaire’s novel to cultivate one of these underwater beauties, or can I manage it as a beginner?
Professor: Fear not, young padawan! Guided by the spirit of Voltaire, Green Lobelia can be managed even by aspiring beginner aquarists. However, providing the right environment for its optimum growth requires a bit of knowledge. Green Lobelia demands moderate to high lighting to bring out its vibrant colors. It thrives in a range of CO2 levels and requires soft to moderately hard water with a pH of 6-8. As for temperature, it prefers 18-26°C. For the bottom substrate, use nutrient-rich sand. Don’t forget to trim the stems as needed to maintain the desired shape.
Child: Tell me more about the propagation of this magical greenery both under and above the water.
Professor: Ah, like the mythical Hydra, Green Lobelia can multiply itself through a unique process. Propagation of this aquatic plant is typically done by cutting the stems and replanting them into the substrate. As a versatile plant, Green Lobelia can also grow emersed, meaning that its foliage will emerge above the waterline. In such circumstances, it may even produce charming little flowers.
4. Precautions
Child: Is there anything else I should be cautious about, like a mysterious twist to this aquatic tale?
Professor: Alas, there are some precautions one must take while growing Green Lobelia in the company of other aquatic organisms. Always be mindful of the maintenance and trimming, as excessive growth can reduce oxygen levels and impact the well-being of your aquatic creatures. Excessively dense growth can also obstruct the view of your fish, as they may find themselves caught in an underwater jungle of Green Lobelia.
5. Summary
Child: Can you poetically recap this enchanting tale of Green Lobelia, good professor?
Professor: With the greatest of pleasure, my dear. The Green Lobelia, the aquatic equivalent of Eden’s fern, is a versatile and charming addition to our undersea fairy realm. Bearing lush, delicate foliage with distinct growth patterns, it can adorn aquariums of various sizes. As neither a master gardener nor a seasoned aquarist is needed, cultivating this green beauty is within reach of those seeking to create their own watery paradise. Yet, one must not forget the importance of maintenance and compatibility with other aquatic organisms. So, as the curtain falls and our tale unfolds, a carefully crafted underwater sanctuary awaits the eager aquarist.
Child: Thank you, dear professor, for introducing me to the enchanting Green Lobelia. My curiosity is now entwined with the tendrils of this aquatic wonder.