About
A vigorous evergreen perennial to 2cm tall, quickly forming a wide mat of tiny rounded leaves, with short-stalked star-shaped pale blue flowers in summer; male and female flowers are on separate plants, so it is unlikely to fruit.
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
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toAustralia
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, moist to well-drained soil in partial or deep shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division at any time of year, keeping the divisions well watered until they are established
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free