About
A mat-forming, evergreen perennial to 6cm tall, with red-tinted stems that spread and root down freely. Good for groudcover in damp soil but has the potential to become a nuisance. In spring and late summer, a mass of star-shaped white flowers, sometimes with purple streaks are produced; these are followed by spherical red-purple berries 4mm across.
About the genus
Lobelia can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with simple leaves and showy 2-lipped flowers that may be solitary or in racemes or panicles
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesRock garden
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin irritant. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, loamy, reliably moist soil in partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division at any time of year
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs, snails and aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free