Lobelia coronopifolia

Lobelia coronopifolia is one of the 69 species of Lobelia found in South-Africa. Lobelia has a cosmopolitan distribution, comprising of more than 360 species.

In South-Africa Lobelia it grows in a variety of habitats from rocky slopes, sand dunes, sandy flats, shady, damp and coastal mountain slopes and forest floors.

We have found 5 different kinds in our area, there are more.

 Pollination

Lobelia flowers achieve cross-pollination by letting the male reproductive organs mature first. A variety of insects pollinate the stigma

Uses

Lobelia is easy to cultivate and has a long flowering period. Gardeners use them as edging plants in flower beds, in containers or hanging baskets.

Some of the South-African lobelia species are used for traditional medicine. The roots of L. pinifolia have been used in remedies for skin disease, chronic rheumatism and gout.

References

Cupido, C.N. & Conrad, F. 2001. Lobelias in South Africa. Veld & Flora 83: 118, 119.

SANBI website.