Also known as Bedding Lobelia · Blue Lobelia · Bush Lobelia
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to pets. See toxicity details.
Garden Lobelia (Lobelia erinus) is a popular annual or short-lived perennial known for its profuse, vibrant blue, purple, or white flowers, ideal for borders, containers,
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Best flowering in full sun, but tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers evenly moist soil. Avoid drying out completely.
Well-drained, fertile
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-24°C. Can tolerate cooler conditions.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Low toxicity to pets
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top centimeter of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant dry out completely, as this can cause wilting and reduce flowering.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler months.
Pinch back the growing tips regularly, especially when the plant is young, to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous flowering and prevent seed formation.
Lightly trim leggy stems to maintain a compact shape.
Garden Lobelia is typically propagated from seeds sown indoors in late winter or early spring. Sow seeds thinly on the surface of moist seed-starting mix and cover lightly.
Germination usually occurs within 10-20 days under optimal conditions. Seedlings can be transplanted after the last frost.
As annuals, Garden Lobelia usually does not require repotting once planted in their final location.
If grown in containers and they become root-bound, repot them into a slightly larger container in spring before active growth begins. Ensure good drainage in the new pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Garden Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)
Where Garden Lobelia (Lobelia erinus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
| Species | Lobelia erinus |
Similar in genus Lobelia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
