Lobelia sp.

Several species are cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens.

Species and varieties:

Lobelia cardinalis

Lobelia erinus

Lobelia laxiflora

Lobelia rhynchopetalum

Lobelia siphilitica

Lobelia tupa

Lobelia x gerardii

Lobelia x speciosa

Lobelia tupa

It is naturally robust, upright, clump-forming perennial with attractive red-purple stems and lance-shaped, downy, grey-green leaves. From the swollen base of each red flower, a clawlike lower lip curls under and a tuft of gray stamens extends upward.

A counter-effect herb for nicotine addiction.

Lobelia tupa should be grown in full sun in an open position, with some shelter from the wind. The soil should be deep, fertile and permanently moist.

Lobelia x gerardii

A hybrid between Lobelia cardinalis and Lobelia siphilitica. This is a showy and dependable edging plant that is categorized as a perennial. Thick stems grow violet-purple flowered racemes.

Prefers moist, rich soil and will continue to self-sow once established.

Platycodon grandiflorus

The name Ballon Flower is based on the unopened flower buds which look like little balloons.

Good for the Rock garden, border or as a ground cover.

Trachelium caeruleum

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Trachelium caeruleum remains evergreen in our climate but can be treated more as a semi-hardy deciduous perennial elsewhere, possibly tolerating temperatures as low as 0° F or as a long blooming annual in even colder climates.