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 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.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Lobelia genus
- Hypsela reniformis
- Lobelia 'Queen Victoria'Lobelia
- Lobelia fulgensCardinal Flower
- Lobelia syphiliticaGreat Blue Lobelia
- Lobelia syphilitica 'Blue Peter'Great Blue Lobelia
- Lobelia tupadevil's tobacco
- Lobelia × vedrariensis
- Pratia pedunculata 'County Park'Blue Star Creeper
