Description
Great Blue Lobelia: Lobelia siphilitica
Lobelia siphilitica is native to the eastern United States and was used and valued for its medicinal benefits by Native Americans.
Great blue lobelia is a beautiful herbaceous perennial. It prefers partially sunny to shady areas and moist soil. True-blue flower spikes, 2-3' in height, emerge from July to September. The flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. In optimum conditions, it will self-sow and naturalize.
Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before planting outside in the early fall or direct sow the seeds into the garden. Press seeds gently into the soil. Do not cover. Keep the soil moist. Seeds germinate in about 3 weeks at a soil temperature of 75°F. When the plants are well established, they may be propagated by division in the spring or fall. USDA Zones 4-9.