Lobelia puberula

Product Info

Downy Lobelia (Lobelia puberula)
Bellflower Family

Downy Lobelia is the most common Lobelia species found in the southeast, but remains somewhat unknown in the horticultural trade. This species is more delicate and unobtrusive than its showier cousin, Great Blue Lobelia, but still deserves a place in the garden. It is not very fussy about sun and moisture requirements, and will grow just about anywhere. It flowers a few weeks later than Great Blue Lobelia, so having both could greatly extend your blue lobelia season. Leaves can turn a beatiful crimson color in the cooler months, and evergreen basal leaves are a deep green. Pair with some of the later blooming yellow asters like Maryland Golden Aster and Goldenrods. Like most Lobelias, this species is considered short-lived, but produces thousands of seeds that will live on.

Blooms: Blue, 4-6 weeks, Aug-Oct
Leaves: Leaves are covered with soft, downy hairs, evergreen basal leaves are a deep green
Height: 2-3’
Space: 1-2’
Soil: Average-Moist-Dry
Exposure:  Full sun-Part sun-Part shade
Fauna: Hummingbirds, bees, butterflies & moths
Seeds: Thousands of tiny brown seeds are held in round seed heads held close to the stem
Deer Resistance: Medium
Zone: 4-9
Native Status: NC native, common across the state
Provenance: NC, Seed grown