Also known as Bedding Lobelia · Blue Lobelia · Bush Lobelia
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to pets. See toxicity details.
Lobelia erinus, the Garden Lobelia, is a popular annual known for its cascading habit and vibrant blue, purple, or white flowers, perfect for borders and containers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering, but can tolerate some shade.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Loam, Sandy loam, Clay loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-24°C. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate Feeding
50% intensity
Feed every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Irritant
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Garden Lobelia prefers consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, ensuring the soil does not completely dry out. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry slightly between waterings for optimal growth.
Deadheading spent flowers regularly promotes continuous blooming and prevents the plant from going to seed. If the plant becomes leggy or stops flowering, a light trim can encourage bushier growth and renewed flowering.
Pinch back stems as needed.
Garden Lobelia is typically grown from seed sown indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Seeds require light to germinate.
Alternatively, cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in moist potting mix.
Annuals, Garden Lobelia generally does not require repotting. If grown in containers and overwintered, repot in fresh potting mix in early spring before new growth begins. Ensure the new pot offers adequate drainage.
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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
