Lobelia Cardinalis
Lobelia Cardinalis, the Cardinal Plant, is a classic North American aquatic plant producing bright green, broadly oval leaves on upright stems that develop striking purple-red undersides under stronger light — creating one of the most distinctive two-toned leaf presentations in the planted aquarium hobby. The contrasting green upper surfaces and purple-red undersides are visible as leaves sway gently in the current, creating a dynamic, shifting two-toned display that rewards attention.
Care tip:Lobelia Cardinalis grows best in moderate lighting with CO₂ not required. Maintain temperatures of 68–78°F and pH 6.0–7.5. Regular liquid fertilization supports healthy growth and best coloration.
Growing to 6 to 12 inches, Lobelia Cardinalis is a natural foreground to midground plant well suited to tanks of all sizes. The upright, branching growth habit responds well to regular trimming, which produces lateral shoots and creates a denser, bushier presentation. In Dutch aquascaping it is one of the most classic and enduring species — valued for the clean green rosette and the purple underside potential under stronger light.
This easy plant requires no CO₂ supplementation and grows in moderate lighting. Temperatures between 68 and 78°F reflect the genuine North American cool-water preference of this species. A pH of 6.0 to 7.5 provides comfortable conditions. Regular fertilization supports healthy growth and the development of the purple underside coloration under good lighting.
In the aquascape, Lobelia Cardinalis provides bold, broad-leaved midground structure with a two-toned leaf quality that adds color complexity at viewing range. The bright green upper surfaces and purple undersides create a naturally shifting color effect. In Dutch layouts it contributes to the precise, structured midground aesthetic. In nature-style setups it adds North American botanical authenticity.
Lobelia Cardinalis is a classic, beautiful, and easy-care North American aquatic plant whose distinctive two-toned leaves have made it a beloved planted aquarium species for generations. Its easy care, cold tolerance, and attractive leaf form make it a universally recommended and deeply rewarding planted aquarium plant.
Care & Specifications
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Placement | Foreground to Midground |
| Max Height | 6–12 inches |
| Light Level | Moderate |
| Temperature | 68–78°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| CO2 Needs | Not Required |
| Origin | North America |
| Notes | Cardinal Plant is a North American aquatic plant producing bright green, broadly oval leaves on upright stems that develop striking purple undersides under stronger light. The contrasting green-and-purple color effect is one of the most distinctive two-toned presentations in the planted aquarium hobby. Easy to grow and very cold-tolerant. |
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