Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
7a-11b
USDA zone
-18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
2m | Max | 50cm |
20cm | Min | 10cm |
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance


More images of Lobelia
Lobelia Overview
Lobelia is a large, cosmopolitan genus of flowering plants with around 400 annuals, perennial and shrubby species from warm temperate regions around the world. All have simple, alternate leaves and 2-lipped, tubular flowers with five lobes (2 erect and the lower 3 fanned out). Though they vary enormously, Lobelia species make a popular ornamental garden plant for its abundant flowering and intense colour. Lobelias make excellent edging plants in flower beds or can be grown in containers and hanging baskets. Lobelia erinus is the most widely cultivated species in the genus. It has been cultivated since the seventeenth century and commonly used in flowerbeds. Most species can easily be grown from seed. The rare Lobelia valida also makes an excellent bedding plant and is often planted in beds at Kirstenbosch garden. Lobelia pteropoda from the Transkei area makes an attractive hanging basket specimen.
Common problems with Lobelia
Generally pest and disease free
How to harvest Lobelia
Generally not harvested
How to propagate Lobelia
Seed
Division
Cuttings
Shrubs by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Special features of Lobelia
Attractive flowers
Attracts bees
Other uses of Lobelia
Grown for their flowers. Some are suitable for wild gardens or by the waterside. Suitable for coastal conditions.