Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia (narrow-leaved Sierra Madre lobelia) — subshrub

Overview

Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia is a subshrub in the genus Lobelia, part of the Campanulaceae family. Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils. It is native to Arizona to Mexico.

About

Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia is a subshrub or shrub from Arizona to Mexico, identified by its narrow-leaved form. It prefers full sun or partial shade and succeeds in well-drained, sandy or rocky soils with moderate moisture. Flowering in the UK occurs from June to September. Handle with care: the plant is harmful if eaten and is a skin irritant, so wear gloves and protective clothing when handling.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lobelia laxiflora

About the genus

Lobelia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Campanulaceae comprising 444 species, with a subcosmopolitan distribution primarily in tropical to warm temperate regions of the world, a few species extending into cooler temperate regions. They are known generally as lobelias.

Wikipedia contributors, "Lobelia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lobelia

In the garden

Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia sits in the Campanulaceae and is a subshrub or shrub native to the region from Arizona through Mexico. The common name narrow‑leaved Sierra Madre lobelia reflects its finer foliage compared with some related lobelias and its origin in dry, rocky habitats. Cultivate it in full sun or partial shade on sharply drained, sandy or rocky ground; it tolerates both exposed and sheltered aspects. Provide moderate soil moisture but avoid waterlogging, as the plant’s preference is for free-draining conditions rather than heavy, wet soils. When handling or pruning, wear gloves and other protective equipment because the species is harmful if eaten and can cause skin irritation. In a UK garden it suits sunny gravel beds, rock gardens and open borders where drainage can be kept free. Planting where roots remain dry at the base yet the site receives warmth and light will best reflect its native habitat. Expect the flowering season to run from June to September, which makes it a useful summer-flowering subshrub in suitably drained, sunny positions.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lobelia

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, sandy, rocky
Soil moisture: moderate
Exposure: exposed, sheltered

Plant details

Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: subshrub, shrub
Native to: Arizona to Mexico
Toxicity: Harmful 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

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia?

Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia need?

Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, sandy and rocky. Aim for soil that stays moderate.

Is Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia toxic?

Harmful 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.

More in the Lobelia genus

Browse all Lobelia →