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Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias (Lobelia)
Lobelias are a large and extremely diverse group of flowering plants that come in a diverse range of shades and hues. For this reason, they make excellent additions in gardens or as houseplants. Do not use any of these plants for internal use, as many species are highly toxic.
Lifespan
Lifespan
Annual, Biennial, Perennial
Plant Type
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
info

Key Facts About Lobelias

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Feedback
feedback

Attributes of Lobelias

Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 35 ℃

Scientific Classification of Lobelias

distribution

Distribution of Lobelias

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Feedback
feedback

Distribution Map of Lobelias

distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
habit
care detail

How to Grow and Care for Lobelias

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Feedback
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how to grow and care
Lobelias is a genus of flowering plants known for diverse light tolerance, from full sun to partial shade. Watering needs vary with temperature and humidity, but moist, well-drained soil is generally desired. Lobelias tends to thrive in cooler conditions. Common challenges include pests like aphids and spider mites, diseases such as powdery mildew, and sensitivity to excessive heat. Seasonal care varies; they need less watering in winter, but regular pruning after the first flowering to encourage continual bloom in warmer seasons.
More Info About Caring for Lobelias
species

Exploring the Lobelias Plants

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Feedback
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8 most common species:
Lobelia erinus
Edging lobelia
Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus) is a native South African flowering plant related to the bellflower. Edging lobelia is a popular garden plant for ornamental purposes and is often cultivated in hanging baskets and planters. Edging lobelia can be damaged by frost and cold temperatures and grows best in temperate climates.
Lobelia siphilitica
Great blue lobelia
Once thought to be a cure for syphilis, the Lobelia siphilitica, or great blue lobelia, is a strikingly beautiful blue wildflower that blooms in late summer. Cascades of segmented tubular flowers sit atop tall erect stems on these showy perennials.
Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal flower
The cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows from 61 to 183 cm tall. Showy red flowers bloom spring through fall. Named for its red flowers that are similar to a Cardinal's robe, these blossoms attract hummingbirds to the garden. Its fruits are blue and foliage changes color in fall. It prefers sun to partial shade with moist soil. Perfect for wet areas.
Lobelia angulata
Lawn lobelia
Lawn lobelia (Lobelia angulata) is a creeping perennial herb native to New Zealand. It grows in moist, but well-drained soil under partial sun. Lawn lobelia tends to create a "carpet" of bright leaves and flowers, making it an attractive addition to many gardens.
Lobelia speciosa
Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa is a hybrid developed from three lobelia species: L. fulgens, L. cardinalis, and L. siphilitica. Lobelia speciosa flowers come in several colors, such as pink, red, or lavender. It's a popular garden plant that particularly attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Lobelia inflata
Indian tobacco
Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata) is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant native to the United States and Canada. It can flourish in areas that humans have polluted, such as roadsides, dump sites, and fallowed fields. Indian tobacco can have toxic effects on the body if consumed in large amounts, a fact that has led to another common name: pukeweed.
Lobelia laxiflora
Mexican Lobelia
The mexican Lobelia or Lobelia laxiflora is a perennial herb or small shrub with tubular red flowers. This easy to grow flower is a favorite of hummingbirds but is toxic to people if ingested. It can be grown in patches or in containers.
Lobelia puberula
Downy lobelia
Downy lobelia originates from the eastern and south-central United States, and it's reportedly the most common blue-flowered species of the Lobelia genus in the southwestern U.S. Its blue-violet flower spikes attract various types of pollinators and give a splash of beautiful color to any garden.

All Species of Lobelias

Edging lobelia
Lobelia erinus
Edging lobelia
Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus) is a native South African flowering plant related to the bellflower. Edging lobelia is a popular garden plant for ornamental purposes and is often cultivated in hanging baskets and planters. Edging lobelia can be damaged by frost and cold temperatures and grows best in temperate climates.
Great blue lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica
Great blue lobelia
Once thought to be a cure for syphilis, the Lobelia siphilitica, or great blue lobelia, is a strikingly beautiful blue wildflower that blooms in late summer. Cascades of segmented tubular flowers sit atop tall erect stems on these showy perennials.
Cardinal flower
Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal flower
The cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows from 61 to 183 cm tall. Showy red flowers bloom spring through fall. Named for its red flowers that are similar to a Cardinal's robe, these blossoms attract hummingbirds to the garden. Its fruits are blue and foliage changes color in fall. It prefers sun to partial shade with moist soil. Perfect for wet areas.
Lawn lobelia
Lobelia angulata
Lawn lobelia
Lawn lobelia (Lobelia angulata) is a creeping perennial herb native to New Zealand. It grows in moist, but well-drained soil under partial sun. Lawn lobelia tends to create a "carpet" of bright leaves and flowers, making it an attractive addition to many gardens.
Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa
Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa is a hybrid developed from three lobelia species: L. fulgens, L. cardinalis, and L. siphilitica. Lobelia speciosa flowers come in several colors, such as pink, red, or lavender. It's a popular garden plant that particularly attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Indian tobacco
Lobelia inflata
Indian tobacco
Indian tobacco (Lobelia inflata) is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant native to the United States and Canada. It can flourish in areas that humans have polluted, such as roadsides, dump sites, and fallowed fields. Indian tobacco can have toxic effects on the body if consumed in large amounts, a fact that has led to another common name: pukeweed.
Mexican Lobelia
Lobelia laxiflora
Mexican Lobelia
The mexican Lobelia or Lobelia laxiflora is a perennial herb or small shrub with tubular red flowers. This easy to grow flower is a favorite of hummingbirds but is toxic to people if ingested. It can be grown in patches or in containers.
Downy lobelia
Lobelia puberula
Downy lobelia
Downy lobelia originates from the eastern and south-central United States, and it's reportedly the most common blue-flowered species of the Lobelia genus in the southwestern U.S. Its blue-violet flower spikes attract various types of pollinators and give a splash of beautiful color to any garden.
Palespike lobelia
Lobelia spicata
Palespike lobelia
Palespike lobelia (Lobelia spicata) is used to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Most other animals won't eat lobelias, but deer will. Birds are not interested in the tiny seeds. Palespike lobelia is native to most of the U.S. and Canada.
Angled lobelia
Lobelia anceps
Angled lobelia
Angled lobelia is a herbaceous flowering herb suitable for groundcover and attractive to bees. "Angled" in its common name Angled lobelia comes from the winged prostrate branches that form at angles, while "lobelia" refers to the name of the Flemish botanist Matthias de l’Obel. This plant is known to grow easily from cuttings.
Sessile lobelia
Lobelia sessilifolia
Sessile lobelia
The height of the stem will be 50 to 100 cm and will not branch. The leaves are stubborn and alternate on the stem the shape is needle-shaped and the edges are fine serrated. The flowering period is from summer to fall and deep purple lip-shaped flowers with a deep purple color bloom in the upper part of the stem. The petals are divided into two upper and lower lips the upper lip splits like a bird wing and the lower lip splits three times. The spider is bell-shaped and the tip splits into five. Like Kyoko it is male mature and has a male flower period in which pollen comes from stamens followed by a female flower period in which pistil stigma comes out.
Dortmann's cardinalflower
Lobelia dortmanna
Dortmann's cardinalflower
The dortmann's cardinalflower is a large plant that grows underwater. Because there are large air spaces within the plant's tissues, oxygen and carbon dioxide can move through the leaves, allowing the plant to grow in lakes where other plants cannot survive. The genus lobelia was discovered in the sixteenth century and is known for bright colors.
Ontario lobelia
Lobelia kalmii
Ontario lobelia
Ontario lobelia (Lobelia kalmii) is a perennial plant that is commonly found growing in wetland areas and prefers moist soil. It blooms in summer with brilliant blue flowers. Flowers have an orchid-like appearance and grow along a flowering stalk.
Chinese lobelia
Lobelia chinensis
Chinese lobelia
Lobelia chinensis is a small perennial herb that grows in tangled clumps from 15 centimetres (5.9 in) to 35 centimetres (14 in) long. It has a long, thin, branching stem that is olive green and green-brown crumpled narrow leaves. It has little to no odor and a sweet and pungent taste. When harvesting herbs for medical use, the ones with the greenest stems and yellower roots are preferred.
White root
Lobelia purpurascens
White root
White root is an intriguing plant known for its vibrant purple flowers. This visually stunning perennial is a favorite among garden enthusiasts for its ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds.white root is a must-have addition to any garden.
Edging lobelia 'Cambridge Blue'
Lobelia erinus 'Cambridge Blue'
Edging lobelia 'Cambridge Blue'
Edging lobelia 'Cambridge Blue' is an Edging lobelia with petals that are the same unique shade of blue that is made famous by Cambridge University. This cultivar may grow taller than its parent plant, reaching up to 30 cm as opposed to 23 cm. It is also more compact than its parent, only spreading out to 23 cm instead of 30 cm. Gardeners love its tolerance to heat and humidity as well as its versatility and long flowering period.
Lobelias 'Hadspen Purple'
Lobelia × speciosa 'Hadspen Purple'
Lobelias 'Hadspen Purple'
Lobelias 'Hadspen Purple' have a long summer blooming period during which they boast tubular purple flowers. This semi-evergreen cultivar does well in city, courtyard, and wildlife gardens. Take care as slugs may be a problem for lobelias 'Hadspen Purple'.
Edging lobelia 'String of Pearls'
Lobelia erinus 'String of Pearls'
Edging lobelia 'String of Pearls'
Edging lobelia 'String of Pearls' is distinct for its abundance of flowers in varying shades of blue, purple, and white. A cultivar of Lobelia erinus, its name refers to the flowers' white, pearl-like eyes. Gardeners love this plant for the splash of different colors it provides, and it serves well as a container plant or as a border.
Edging lobelia 'Mrs Clibran'
Lobelia erinus 'Mrs Clibran'
Edging lobelia 'Mrs Clibran'
Edging lobelia 'Mrs Clibran' is a stunning cultivar of Edging lobelia with dark violet-blue flowers and white eyes. It is more compact but better spreading than its parent, reaching a height of 15 cm instead of 23 cm and spreading to 50 cm instead of 30 cm. Gardeners love this cultivar because it is easy to grow and blooms profusely throughout the summer.
Tupa
Lobelia polyphylla
Tupa
Tupa is a robust, herbaceous perennial with dense clusters of striking tubular flowers, often in shades of deep blue or violet. Its multiple, lance-shaped leaves create a lush backdrop for the blossoms, which are a magnet for pollinators. This species thrives in well-drained soils and benefits from exposure to full sun to partial shade, reflecting its adaptation to diverse habitats.
Ceylon lobelia
Lobelia zeylanica
Ceylon lobelia
Ceylon lobelia is a delicate herbaceous species with a slender stem, thriving in the tropical climates of its native range. Its vibrant blue flowers, tubular in shape, punctuate the foliage consisting of small, green, lanceolate leaves. The plant's preferred habitat includes moist, well-drained soils near water bodies, where its striking blooms often attract pollinators. Ceylon lobelia's distinctiveness lies in its flower's intense hue, contrasted against a backdrop of verdant leaves, making it a notable presence in its natural environment.
Common pratia
Lobelia nummularia
Common pratia
Common pratia is a delicate perennial herb with a creeping, mat-forming habit. It sports small, rounded leaves and dainty blue or violet tubular flowers, which are a lure for pollinators. Thriving in moist, shaded environments, common pratia's ability to carpet the ground helps retain soil moisture, contributing to its ecosystem's health.
Cardinal flower 'Queen Victoria'
Lobelia cardinalis 'Queen Victoria'
Cardinal flower 'Queen Victoria'
Cardinal flower 'Queen Victoria' is an heirloom cardinal cultivar developed for its bright red flowers. Growing to an impressive 91 to 122 cm tall, this regal variant is hardy, easy to maintain and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases, making it a popular choice for easily adding color to a garden.
Lobelias 'Pink Elephant'
Lobelia × speciosa 'Pink Elephant'
Lobelias 'Pink Elephant'
Lobelias 'Pink Elephant' is a striking hybrid perennial, prized for its vibrant, spire-shaped pink blossoms. It flourishes in moist, well-drained soils under full sun to partial shade, reaching up to 90 cm in height. Its lush, lance-shaped leaves encase the sturdy stems, creating an attractive background for the tubular flowers that allure hummingbirds and butterflies during summer blooms.
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Dracaena
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Ficus
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Rubus
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Acer
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Solanum
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Rosa
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Quercus
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
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About
Key Facts
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How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelias
Lobelia
Lobelias are a large and extremely diverse group of flowering plants that come in a diverse range of shades and hues. For this reason, they make excellent additions in gardens or as houseplants. Do not use any of these plants for internal use, as many species are highly toxic.
Lifespan
Lifespan
Annual, Biennial, Perennial
Plant Type
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
info

Key Facts About Lobelias

feedback
Feedback
feedback

Attributes of Lobelias

Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 35 ℃

Scientific Classification of Lobelias

distribution

Distribution of Lobelias

feedback
Feedback
feedback

Distribution Map of Lobelias

distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
care detail

How to Grow and Care for Lobelias

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Lobelias is a genus of flowering plants known for diverse light tolerance, from full sun to partial shade. Watering needs vary with temperature and humidity, but moist, well-drained soil is generally desired. Lobelias tends to thrive in cooler conditions. Common challenges include pests like aphids and spider mites, diseases such as powdery mildew, and sensitivity to excessive heat. Seasonal care varies; they need less watering in winter, but regular pruning after the first flowering to encourage continual bloom in warmer seasons.
More Info About Caring for Lobelias
species

Exploring the Lobelias Plants

feedback
Feedback
feedback
8 most common species:
Lobelia erinus
Edging lobelia
Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus) is a native South African flowering plant related to the bellflower. Edging lobelia is a popular garden plant for ornamental purposes and is often cultivated in hanging baskets and planters. Edging lobelia can be damaged by frost and cold temperatures and grows best in temperate climates.
Lobelia siphilitica
Great blue lobelia
Once thought to be a cure for syphilis, the Lobelia siphilitica, or great blue lobelia, is a strikingly beautiful blue wildflower that blooms in late summer. Cascades of segmented tubular flowers sit atop tall erect stems on these showy perennials.
Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal flower
The cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows from 61 to 183 cm tall. Showy red flowers bloom spring through fall. Named for its red flowers that are similar to a Cardinal's robe, these blossoms attract hummingbirds to the garden. Its fruits are blue and foliage changes color in fall. It prefers sun to partial shade with moist soil. Perfect for wet areas.
Lobelia angulata
Lawn lobelia
Lawn lobelia (Lobelia angulata) is a creeping perennial herb native to New Zealand. It grows in moist, but well-drained soil under partial sun. Lawn lobelia tends to create a "carpet" of bright leaves and flowers, making it an attractive addition to many gardens.
Show More Species

All Species of Lobelias

popular genus

More Popular Genus

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Ficus
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Rubus
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Acer
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Solanum
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Rosa
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Quercus
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
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17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
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80+ scholars in botany and gardening
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