Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full sun
Aspect:
South facing, west facing

Soil

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Lobelias are small, long flowering perennials from South Africa. Lobelia erinus is a trailing species with masses of purple or blue flowers. It has fine stems and deep green leaves, which are toothed and roughly oval. It's especially effective in hanging baskets, flower pouches and other containers, where its trailing stems spill over the sides bearing masses of flowers, throughout summer.

Grow Lobelia erinus in a cool spot in moist soil in partial shade. Rejuvenate plants in midsummer by cutting back, to maintain bushy growth and encourage repeat flowering.

Read our full guide on how to grow lobelia.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Sowyes
Plantyesyes
Flowersyesyesyesyes

Lobelia and wildlife

Lobelia has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Lobelia poisonous?

Lobelia has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Cats
Cats
Is not known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
Plants that go well with Lobelia erinus
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