Lobelia erinus (edging lobelia, garden lobelia or trailing lobelia) is a species of flowering plant in the bellflower family Campanulaceae, native to southern Africa.

Where is Lobelia native to?

lobelia, (genus Lobelia), genus of more than 400 species of flowering plants in the bellflower family (Campanulaceae) native to nearly all the temperate and warmer regions of the world, except central and eastern Europe and western Asia. A number are cultivated as garden ornamentals for their attractive flowers.

What do Lobelias symbolize?

In some cultures, they symbolize love while others associate them with good luck or prosperity. These flowers are also often worn as jewelry to symbolize love or friendship. These flowers are seen as symbols of love and affection. They are also said to be good for the soul.

Where does the name Lobelia come from?

The genus Lobelia was first formally described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus in Species plantarum and was named after the Flemish botanist Matthias de Lobel (1538–1616).

Is lobelia native to Maryland?

Growing in wet meadows, springs, freshwater marshes, and along streams, rivers, and ponds throughout the state, the cardinal flower is one of several members of the Lobelia genus native to Maryland and the only one with red flowers.

Facts about Lobelia Plants

39 related questions found

What colors do lobelia come in?

Traditionally, lobelia has been offered in every shade of blue known. Now, lobelia has started to break into the pink, lavender and dark-purple color ranges. White is another traditional color of lobelia, but bicolors of white and blue, and white and lavender are starting to become available.

What is Lobelia other name?

Other Name(s): Asthma Weed, Bladderpod, Emetic Herb, Gagroot, Herbe à Asthme, Indian Tobacco, Lobelia inflata, Lobélie, Lobélie Brûlante, Lobélie Enflée, Lobélie Gonflée, Pukeweed, Tabac Indien, Vomit Wort, Wild Tobacco.

Where does lobelia grow?

Perennial lobelia

Lobelia cardinalis can be grown in sun or, preferably, partial shade. It needs a good, fertile soil that remains moist during summer, and doesn't dry out. Lobelia tupa needs a sheltered position in full sun and a good, fertile, well-drained soil.

What is Lobelia herb?

Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) is a plant used in herbal and homeopathic medicine. Said to expel mucus from the respiratory tract, it is used to treat respiratory problems. In addition, some individuals use lobelia to help them quit smoking, sooth muscles, support alcoholism recovery, and more.

What do dahlias represent?

Dahlia Symbolism

Dahlia has a rich symbolism: the flower stands for wealth and elegance, and also for love and involvement. It's a perfect flower to express your love! For the Aztecs, Dahlia was a religious symbol, besides food the flower was used in different types of ceremonies.

What flowers signify death?

Flowers that symbolize death include black roses, which traditionally portend death. Black roses such as black ice and black pearl actually are dark-red roses. Another flower associated with death is the chrysanthemum. In many European countries, chrysanthemums are only used for funerary bouquets or on graves.

What do forget me not flowers represent?

Forget-me-nots symbolize true love and respect. When you give someone these tiny blooms, it represents a promise that you will always remember them and will keep them in your thoughts.

Is Lobelia an Australian native?

Lobelia is a genus of over 300 species found in many parts of the world, especially tropical and subtropical regions of North America, southern Africa and Australia. There are about 20 species native to Australia, ocurring in all states. All but one (Lobelia alata) are endemic to Australia.

Is great blue lobelia native?

A native Wisconsin wildflower, Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) blooms in late summer with bright blue flowers on tall spikes that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Is lobelia native to Texas?

Although native to North America, it's been cultivated in Europe since the 1600s for its lovely flower.

Does lobelia come up every year?

Lobelia erinus is the annual variety of the plant and comes in many species. ... The annual forms tend to get weedy when temperatures get hot in summer but can be rejuvenated by cutting the plants back by half. Perennial forms will bloom almost into the middle of fall.

Where does lobelia grow best?

Planting Lobelia in the Garden:

Select a location with well-drained, rich, moist soil in partial shade to full sun.

Does lobelia like sun or shade?

Lobelia seeds can be sown directly in the garden or indoors for later transplanting. These plants typically require an area with full sun but will tolerate partial shade. They also prefer moist, rich soil.

What kind of flower is Lobelia?

Lobelia belongs to the bellflower family (Campanulaceae) and it consists of shrubs, annuals, and perennials. It is a low growing, widely popular, trailing or bushy flower. Most of the times, these flowering plant species are planted in garden beds or in containers because that is where they look the best.

How many petals does a lobelia have?

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis L.)

The Cardinal flower is a member of the Bluebell Family. It was named after the Flemish botanist, Matthias de L'Obel (1538-1616). The blossoms are delicate, gradually opening from bottom to top on two to four foot spikes. Five petals are united into a two-lipped corolla.

Are Lobelias edible?

Edible Uses: The buds and young plants are cooked and used as a famine food[177, 179]. Caution is advised because they contain a toxic alkaloid[179].

What does a lobelia look like?

The tiny five-petaled flowers bloom in shades of blue, purple, rose, and white, with some accented by white eyes. Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), named for its showy spikes of scarlet-red flowers, is the most popular perennial variety. Some varieties also have ornamental reddish-bronze foliage.

Is Campanula the same as lobelia?

The genus Lobelia includes several hundred species that are part of the campanula (Campanulaceae) family. Most types of lobelia have the bell-shaped blossoms characteristic of the campanulas, but otherwise they may differ dramatically in appearance.

Are Lobelias annuals or perennials?

Lobelia is a genus of about 370 species of annuals, perennials (even some aquatics) and shrubs. They are all basically perennials, but some are treated as annuals. In their native habitat they may be found along riverbanks, wet meadows, marshes, woodlands, mountain slopes and deserts.