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Lobelia

Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Rose (30)ct Flat

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Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Scarlet Bronze Leaf (30)ct Flat

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Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Blue (30)ct Flat

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Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Rose (30)ct Flat

Lobelia speciosa STARSHIP™ Rose (30)ct FlatSTARSHIP™ SeriesCommon Name: Cardinal Flower, Hybrid Lobelia Developed by Kieft Seeds, the STARSHIP™ Series is an improvement on older...

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Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Scarlet Bronze Leaf (30)ct Flat

Lobelia speciosa STARSHIP™ Scarlet Bronze Leaf (30)ct FlatSTARSHIP™ SeriesCommon Name: Cardinal Flower, Hybrid Lobelia A replacement for 'Vulcan Red'. This perennial has similar excellent...

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Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Blue (30)ct Flat

Lobelia speciosa STARSHIP™ Blue (30)ct FlatSTARSHIP™ SeriesCommon Name: Cardinal Flower, Hybrid Lobelia Deep violet blue flowers are produced on incredibly upright flower spikes. We have...

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What are the characteristics of Lobelia?

Here are some of the characteristics of Lobelia:

Flowering plants: Lobelia is a genus of flowering plants comprising over 400 species of small to large annuals, perennial herbs, and shrubs . Their long flowering period, ease of cultivation, and striking flowers have made many Lobelia species popular garden subjects.
Leaf structure: Most members have simple leaves borne alternately along the stems. The leaves are delicate and ovate, with a dark green color.
Flower structure: The most distinct characteristic of Lobelia is its unique flowers. They are two-lipped tubular flowers, with five lobes . Often, the flowers have two erect upper lobes and a lower fan formed of the remaining three lobes. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including blue, violet, purple, red, and pink, and often have yellow or white eyes.
Habit: Lobelia species can either have an upright and bushy habit or be more pendulous. Upright varieties typically grow to 4-9 inches tall, while trailing varieties can reach up to a meter in length. This makes them perfect for various gardening applications, from borders and flower beds to hanging baskets and containers.
Toxicity: It's important to note that all parts of the Lobelia plant are toxic if ingested and can cause serious health problems.

Here are some of the most popular Lobelia species cultivated in gardens:

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis): This perennial variety has tall, upright stems with vibrant red flowers.
Blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica): This perennial Lobelia features blue flowers and prefers moist locations.
Trailing lobelia (Lobelia erinus): This widely cultivated annual species is known for its profuse blooms and cascading growth habit. It comes in a wide variety of flower colors.

How do I plant Lobelia?

Here's a guide on how to plant Lobelia:

Choosing the right time and location:

Lobelia thrives in cool weather. In most places, it's best to plant Lobelia transplants in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
For hot summer climates, consider planting in late September through December for blooms in early spring.
Lobelia can tolerate a variety of light conditions but prefers full sun to partial shade. Opt for more shade in very hot afternoons, especially in hot climates.

Planting Lobelia:

Lobelia prefers well-draining, moist soil that's rich in organic matter. Amend the planting area with compost or a good quality potting mix before planting.
Dig holes slightly wider and deeper than the root ball of your Lobelia plant.
Gently remove the Lobelia from its pot and tease out any rootbound roots.
Place the Lobelia in the hole and fill the surrounding area with soil, tamping it down gently to eliminate air pockets.
Water thoroughly after planting to establish the root system.

Additional care tips:

Lobelia prefers consistently moist soil, so water regularly, especially during hot weather or dry spells. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Lobelia benefits from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. You can use a time-release fertilizer at planting and supplement with a liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.

By following these tips, you can successfully plant and care for your Lobelia plants and enjoy their beautiful flowers throughout the season.

What are varieties of Lobelia?

There are over 400 species of Lobelia, but here are some of the most popular varieties cultivated in gardens:

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis): This perennial variety has tall, upright stems (up to 4 feet tall) with vibrant red flowers. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist soil.
Blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica): This perennial Lobelia features blue flowers and prefers moist locations in full sun to part shade. It can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Trailing lobelia (Lobelia erinus): This widely cultivated annual species is known for its profuse blooms and cascading growth habit, making it perfect for hanging baskets and containers. It comes in a wide variety of flower colors, including blue, purple, red, white, and pink. It typically grows 6-8 inches tall but can trail up to a meter in length.

Here are some other notable Lobelia varieties:

Lobelia x speciosa: These are large-flowered hybrids between Lobelia cardinalis and Lobelia siphilitica. They come in a wide range of colours from white, blue and deep purple through to vibrant red, and tend to send their flowering stems up 16 inches to 4 feet above fleshy, evergreen rosettes.
Lobelia tupa: This striking variety has bright red flowers and dark green foliage. It's a half-hardy perennial that typically grows 1-2 feet tall.
Lobelia laxiflora subsp. angustifolia: This variety features slender arching stems with narrow leaves and blue flowers. It's a low-growing perennial that reaches about 8 inches in height.

How Do I Care For a Lobelia?

Caring for Lobelia is fairly straightforward, but here's a breakdown of the key aspects to keep your plants thriving:

Light and Location:

Lobelia can tolerate a variety of light conditions, but it generally prefers full sun to partial shade. Aim for at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
In very hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent scorching, especially for trailing varieties in containers.

Watering:

Lobelia enjoys consistently moist soil, so regular watering is crucial. The frequency will depend on factors like climate, sunlight exposure, and pot size.
During hot weather or dry spells, you'll likely need to water more frequently. Stick your finger in the soil to check moisture levels - if the top inch feels dry, it's time to water.
Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Lobelia prefers evenly moist soil, not soggy.

Soil and Fertilizer:

Lobelia thrives in well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Amending your planting area with compost or a good quality potting mix will ensure proper drainage and provide essential nutrients.
For container-grown Lobelia, use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for flowering plants.
Lobelia benefits from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. You can use a slow-release fertilizer at planting time and supplement with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.

Pruning and Deadheading:

Most Lobelia varieties, particularly trailing varieties, benefit from occasional light pruning to maintain a bushy and compact shape. You can simply pinch off leggy stems or spent flowers to encourage new growth and continued blooming.
Deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers, is not always necessary for some trailing Lobelia varieties as they are self-cleaning. However, it can improve the overall appearance of the plant and potentially promote further blooming.

Additional Tips:

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Lobelia plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases that can affect Lobelia, such as aphids, mealybugs, and powdery mildew. Early intervention with organic methods or insecticidal soap can help control pest infestations.
Depending on the variety, Lobelia can be a perennial or annual plant. Perennial varieties will die back in winter but re-emerge in spring. Annual Lobelia will need to be replanted each year.

By following these care tips, you can ensure your Lobelia flourishes and adds beautiful blooms to your garden or containers throughout the season.

Does Lobelia attract pollinators?

Yes, Lobelia is a pollinator magnet! Here's why:

Attractive colors: Many Lobelia varieties boast vibrant blue, red, or purple flowers - colors that are particularly attractive to pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Nectar and pollen: Lobelia flowers produce nectar and pollen, which are essential food sources for pollinators. The nectar provides them with energy, while the pollen provides protein and nutrients for their young. The tubular shape of the Lobelia flower is well-suited for some pollinators, like bumblebees, to reach the nectar.
Varieties for different pollinators: Different Lobelia varieties attract different pollinators. For instance, trailing Lobelia with its shorter flowers might be more suitable for small bees and butterflies, while taller varieties with deeper tubes might be preferred by hummingbirds with longer beaks.

Overall, Lobelia is a great choice for gardeners who want to attract pollinators to their gardens and support the local ecosystem.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Lobelia?

Yes, even though Lobelia is a relatively easy-care plant, there are a few common pests and diseases that can affect it. Here are some of the most common ones:

Pests:

Spider mites: These tiny mites suck the juices out of Lobelia leaves, causing them to turn brown and wither. You might notice fine webbing on the underside of leaves. A strong spray of water can dislodge them, or insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for heavier infestations.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on plant sap, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. They often cluster on the undersides of leaves and new growth. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective in controlling aphids.
Corn earworms: These caterpillars bore into the stems of Lobelia, causing wilting and collapse. Look for holes in the base of the stems and remove affected plants to prevent further spread. Insecticidal sprays can be used as a preventative measure.

Diseases:

Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea): This fungal disease thrives in cool, wet conditions and causes fuzzy gray mold to grow on flowers, leaves, and stems. Remove and dispose of affected plant parts to prevent further spread. Improve air circulation around your plants and avoid overwatering.
Leaf spots: These can be caused by various fungal pathogens and appear as brown or yellow spots on the leaves. Fungal diseases are more prevalent in wet conditions. If the spots are severe, fungicide may be necessary. However, often removing affected leaves and improving air circulation will help prevent further problems.

Here are some additional tips to help prevent pest and disease problems with Lobelia:

Purchase healthy plants: When buying Lobelia from a nursery, choose plants that are free of pests and diseases.
Provide good air circulation: Don't crowd your Lobelia plants together. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases.
Water correctly: Avoid overwatering, which can promote fungal diseases.
Deadhead spent flowers: This will not only improve the appearance of your plants but may also help to discourage pests and diseases.
Monitor your plants regularly: Regularly inspect your Lobelia plants for signs of pests or diseases. Early detection and treatment will help to prevent serious problems.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your Lobelia healthy and free of pests and diseases.

Can I Use Lobelia in Floral Arrangements?

Absolutely, Lobelia can be a beautiful and versatile addition to floral arrangements! Here's why:

Variety of colors and forms: Lobelia comes in a wide range of colors, including blue, red, purple, pink, and white. You can find trailing varieties perfect for cascading arrangements or upright varieties that add pops of color and texture.
Long bloom time: Many Lobelia varieties have a long blooming period, extending from spring to fall, which can add extended beauty to your arrangements.
Attracts pollinators: If you're creating an outdoor arrangement, Lobelia can attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds, adding a touch of life and movement to your display.

Here are some tips for using Lobelia in floral arrangements:

Choose the right variety: Consider the overall style and color scheme of your arrangement when selecting a Lobelia variety. Trailing varieties work well in hanging baskets or cascading arrangements, while upright varieties can add height and structure.
Combine with complementary flowers: Lobelia pairs well with a variety of flowers. Here are some ideas:
- For a classic look, combine Lobelia with pansies, violas, or alyssum.
- For a bolder look, pair Lobelia with marigolds or zinnias.
- For a more delicate look, Lobelia can be paired with baby's breath or ferns.
Prepare Lobelia for arrangements: Cut stems at a diagonal to maximize water absorption and remove any lower leaves that might fall below the water line in the vase.
Hydrate Lobelia stems: Before adding them to your arrangement, give the Lobelia stems a fresh cut and place them in a vase of cool water for several hours.

With a little planning and creativity, you can use Lobelia to create stunning and eye-catching floral arrangements.

Is Lobelia Invasive?

The invasiveness of Lobelia depends on the specific species and your location. Here's a breakdown:

Native Lobelia: There are native Lobelia species in North America, such as the blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica). These species are not invasive and can be a good choice for gardens that support native ecosystems.
Non-native Lobelia: Some Lobelia species, particularly trailing lobelia (Lobelia erinus), are non-native and can be invasive in certain areas. They can spread aggressively and outcompete native plants, disrupting the natural balance of the ecosystem.

Here's what you can do to determine if a Lobelia species is invasive in your area:

Research the specific variety: Before planting Lobelia, identify the exact species you're interested in.
Check with local resources: Consult your local gardening resources, nurseries, or cooperative extension office to see if that particular Lobelia species is listed as invasive in your area. They can provide you with information about native Lobelia species that are well-suited for your location.
Online resources: Websites like the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States [invasive plant atlas ON Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States invasiveplantatlas.org] can be helpful for checking the invasive status of plants by location.

By following these steps, you can make informed decisions about planting Lobelia in your garden and avoid introducing potentially invasive species into your local environment.

When Is The Best Time To propagate Lobelia?

The best time to propagate Lobelia depends on whether you're doing it from seeds or stem cuttings:

Propagation by seeds: Early spring (normally 4-8 weeks before transplanting outdoors) is the ideal time for sowing Lobelia seeds. This allows the seedlings ample time to develop a strong root system before the warmer summer temperatures arrive.
Propagation by stem cuttings: Spring is generally considered the best time for propagating Lobelia through stem cuttings. This coincides with the plant's active growth period when it can readily root and establish new growth.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the reasons behind these timings:

Spring for seeds:

Favorable temperatures: Spring offers mild temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold, ideal for seed germination. Lobelia seeds typically germinate best in a range of 68-77°F (20-25°C).
Longer daylight hours: Spring provides increasing daylight hours, crucial for seedling development.
Preparation for transplanting outdoors: Sowing seeds in early spring allows the seedlings to mature sufficiently before the last frost has passed, making them ready for transplanting outdoors in late spring or early summer.

Spring for stem cuttings:

Active growth: Spring coincides with Lobelia's active growth phase, when the stems are more likely to root successfully.
Warm soil temperatures: Warmer soil temperatures in spring promote root development in the cuttings.
Time for establishment: Taking cuttings in spring allows them ample time to establish a strong root system before the summer heat arrives.

Additional considerations:

Your climate: If you live in a region with a mild climate and longer growing seasons, you might have more flexibility with propagation timing. You could potentially sow seeds or take cuttings a bit earlier or later in the season.
Indoor propagation: If you're propagating Lobelia indoors under controlled conditions, you can be more flexible with timing. You can start seeds or take cuttings any time of year, as long as you can provide the necessary light, temperature, and humidity levels.

Remember, regardless of the propagation method, it's important to choose healthy Lobelia plants as a source for seeds or cuttings. This will increase your chances of successful propagation.

What are the benefits of planting Lobelia?

Here are some of the benefits of planting Lobelia in your garden:

Beauty and Color:

Vibrant flowers: Lobelia boasts a wide range of flower colors, including blue, red, purple, pink, and white. This makes them a versatile choice for adding pops of color and vibrancy to your garden beds, borders, or containers.
Long blooming period: Many Lobelia varieties have a long blooming period, extending from spring to fall. This provides continuous color and visual interest throughout a significant portion of the growing season.

Attracts Pollinators:

Food source for pollinators: Lobelia flowers produce nectar and pollen, attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This can benefit your garden's ecosystem by encouraging pollination of other plants and promoting biodiversity.
Visually appealing to pollinators: The vibrant colors and tubular shapes of Lobelia flowers are particularly attractive to pollinators, making them a great choice for attracting these beneficial creatures.

Easy to Care For:

Low maintenance: Lobelia is generally considered a low-maintenance plant. They thrive in a variety of light conditions (full sun to partial shade) and with proper watering and occasional feeding, they can flourish without requiring excessive attention.
Versatile growth habits: Lobelia varieties come in both upright and trailing forms. This versatility allows you to use them in various gardening applications. Upright varieties add pops of color to borders, while trailing varieties are perfect for hanging baskets, window boxes, or spilling over container edges.

Other Benefits:

Suitable for various climates: Depending on the specific variety, Lobelia can tolerate a range of climates, from cool to moderately warm. There are even some varieties that can handle light frosts.
Can be grown from seeds or cuttings: Lobelia can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings, allowing you to expand your collection or share with gardening friends.

Overall, Lobelia offers a combination of aesthetic appeal, ecological benefits, and ease of care, making it a valuable addition to many gardens.

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Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Rose (30)ct Flat

Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Scarlet Bronze Leaf (30)ct Flat

Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Blue (30)ct Flat

Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Rose (30)ct Flat

Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Scarlet Bronze Leaf (30)ct Flat

Lobelia

Lobelia s. STARSHIP Blue (30)ct Flat

What are the characteristics of Lobelia?

How do I plant Lobelia?

What are varieties of Lobelia?

How Do I Care For a Lobelia?

Does Lobelia attract pollinators?

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Lobelia?

Can I Use Lobelia in Floral Arrangements?

Is Lobelia Invasive?

When Is The Best Time To propagate Lobelia?

What are the benefits of planting Lobelia?