The Lobelia is a genus of flowering garden plant with nearly 400 different species. Lobelias are native to the warm tropical areas of the globe although some can be found in cooler climates. Named after the Belgian Botanist Matthias de Lobel, there has been some confusion as to which plant family the Lobelia belongs to with some botanists linking it to the Lobeliaceae family and others claiming that it is a sub-family of the Campanulaceae, entitled Lobeliadeae.
Having been grown for many years as a garden plant, Lobelias has been shown to be effective in the treatment of certain conditions. For instance, one famous species of Lobelia, the Lobelia Inflata or Indian Tobacco as it is sometimes referred to, has been used for many years to help treat asthma, as well as food poisoning. Lobelia Inflata has also been used extensively in herbal medicine and as an aid in smoking cessation sessions. The plant has been seen to have muscle relaxant properties and therefore used to ease panic attacks and tension.
Lobelia is a popular ornamental garden plant and is regarded for the bright splashes of colour it gives. Perfect for hanging baskets or window boxes, Lobelia can also be planted in garden borders because it belongs to the herbaceous category of garden plants. It should be planted in an open position with plenty of sunlight and prefers deep, moist soil. It is important to ensure that once planted, Lobelias are protected from the wind.
Although many Lobelia species can be grown worldwide, some varieties grow particularly well here in the UK. Several Lobelia types are better suited to containers whereas others work best in borders. For instance, ready to plant bush Lobelias are available in a variety or mixture of colours and flower over a long period of time providing an extremely colourful yet compact bedding plant display.
Lobelia White Fountain on the other hand grows well in baskets or pots and has a beautiful trailing flower. There are of course, Lobelia types that can be utilised in both beds and pots such as the Lobelia Little Gems. If you are looking for a ready to plant Lobelia for your hanging baskets or containers then it might be worth considering a collection of mixed trailing Lobelias as these beautiful garden plants flower prolifically and almost all year round.
Lobelias are not usually attacked by pests, as can often be the case with garden plants. However, as with many other herbaceous plant varieties, Lobelia crowns can fall victim to slugs therefore it is important to keep this in mind. Another thing to bear in mind is that should winter months be mild or damp then crown rot may set in.
In terms of colours, there is a myriad of choice depending on personal preference. White, crimson, and deep purple are just a few of the colour choices and mixtures of shades can be found too. One of the great things about the Lobelia species is that they flower the same year that they are sown.
If you are sowing Lobelia from seed you would normally need to do this between January and April with flowering taking place from June to October giving a long-lasting blast of colour. When planting established Lobelia bedding plants you should plant anytime between April and early June.
Anyone wishing to get their hands on some of these fabulous Lobelia plants can order online by visiting www.plantmenow.co.uk.
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With over 15 years experience in the gardening sector, Tim has consulted on TV shows such as BBC Gardener’s World, the BBC daytime show Gardening Neighbours and numerous local radio stations such as BBC West Midlands and Smooth Radio. With extensive gardening and product knowledge, Tim has had an input into the ranges for the UK’s largest gardening retailers and helped devise and review new products for some of largest gardening suppliers around. 