Lobelia Lobelia erinus Waterfall White Sparkle = 'Balobwaspar' (Waterfall Series)
ABOUT
The Lobelia erinus Waterfall White Sparkle, part of the Waterfall Series, is an aesthetically pleasing plant known for its distinctive floral display. The most striking feature of this Lobelia variant lies in its dainty white flowers that showcase a delicate sparkle as if kissed by dew or touched by a light frost, giving the plant its "sparkle" moniker. Each flower is characterized by a petite size and possesses an elegant, clean white hue that can brighten any garden space. The blossoms are adorned with subtle, soft throats of pale blue to lavender, which add a touch of color contrast and depth to the overall appearance. The foliage of the plant is a vibrant green, forming a lush backdrop that accentuates the pristine whiteness of the flowers. The leaves are small, with a slightly pointed oval shape, and their somewhat glossy texture complements the radiance of the blooms. The plant grows in a mounding to trailing habit, which makes it particularly attractive when draped over the sides of containers, hanging baskets, or as a foreground accent in garden borders. This Lobelia variant blooms profusely, covering the plant in a blanket of white flowers, which can create a stunning visual impact. Its continuous flowering habit ensures a long-lasting display of color throughout the season. Additionally, the plant's overall appearance can shift gracefully with the changing light conditions, with blooms taking on different luminous qualities from the bright midday sun to the softer light of dusk.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Campanulaceae
Synonyms
Garden Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia, Edging Lobelia, Cascade Lobelia
Common names
Lobelia erinus 'Balobwaspar'.
ToxicityTo humans
Lobelia, including the variety Lobelia erinus, is known to contain several alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in significant quantities. Ingesting parts of the lobelia plant can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, dizziness, convulsions, and potentially more severe reactions if consumed in large amounts. Extreme cases can result in respiratory failure and other life-threatening conditions. It is advised to avoid eating any part of the lobelia plant and to seek medical attention immediately if ingestion occurs.
To pets
Lobelia is also toxic to pets if ingested, due to the alkaloids present in the plant. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, convulsions, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to coma or even death. Pet owners should prevent animals from consuming lobelia and seek veterinary care promptly if exposure is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Lobelia erinus is known for its ease of cultivation and care, making it a great choice for novice gardeners.
- Continuous Blooming: The plant produces an abundance of blooms throughout the growing season, offering long-lasting floral displays.
- Versatile Use: It is suitable for hanging baskets, containers, and borders, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry conditions, requiring less frequent watering.
- Attract Pollinators: The flowers attract butterflies and bees, supporting local ecosystems and pollination.
- Compact Size: Its compact growth habit makes it ideal for small spaces and densely planted floral arrangements.
- Cold Tolerant: This particular variety can withstand cooler temperatures better than many others, extending its blooming season in temperate climates.
- Colorful Displays: 'Balobwaspar' adds a bright, white sparkle to garden spaces, contrasting nicely with other plants.
- Low Maintenance: It does not typically require deadheading and has minimal upkeep requirements.
- Fast Growing: Lobelia erinus can quickly fill in spaces with its lush foliage and vibrant blooms.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Lobelia can be used as a delicate and attractive prop for close-up or macro photography, enhancing the image with its fine details and soft color.
- Art Inspiration: The intricate blooms and gentle color gradient of the Lobelia can serve as inspiration for painters and illustrators looking for floral subjects.
- Educational Tool: Schools and educational programs can use the Lobelia to teach students about plant biology, pollination, and horticulture.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of Lobelia could be used to add a unique, decorative touch to salads or as a vibrant garnish for elegant dishes.
- Homemade Potpourri: The dried flowers of Lobelia can be added to a homemade potpourri mix for a natural and subtle fragrance in the home.
- Bath Additive: Some non-toxic Lobelia species can be used for creating a relaxing, floral bath experience when the flowers are sprinkled into the water.
- Craft Projects: The flowers and leaves of the Lobelia can be incorporated into various craft projects, such as flower pressing or in creating natural dyes.
- Jewelry Making: Small Lobelia flowers can be preserved in resin to create unique and beautiful jewelry such as pendants and earrings.
- Greeting Cards: Pressed Lobelia flowers can be used to decorate handmade greeting cards for a special and personalized touch.
- Special Events Decoration: Lobelia can be used in floral arrangements for weddings and other special events to create a delicate and whimsical atmosphere.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lobelia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lobelia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Devotion and Loyalty: Lobelia often represents devotion and unwavering loyalty due to its perennial nature and tendency to bloom consistently and vibrantly year after year.
- Purity: The color white in 'Balobwaspar' symbolizes purity and innocence, which can be associated with the Waterfall White Sparkle variety's pristine white flowers.
- Distinction: Waterfall White Sparkle stands out due to its bright and clear color, which could symbolize distinction or set apartness in a garden or bouquet.
WaterThe Lobelia, or more specifically, the Waterfall White Sparkle Lobelia, prefers consistently moist soil without being waterlogged. It's usually best to water these plants deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be approximately every 2 to 3 days during warmer months. The amount of water needed can vary based on climate, but aim for about 1 gallon per square foot every week, adjusting as necessary for rainfall and temperature conditions. During cooler months or in rainy climates, watering frequency should be reduced to prevent root rot.
LightThe Lobelia prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, especially in hotter climates, so a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. If grown indoors, a north- or east-facing window is a good location to provide the required light without overexposure to harsh direct sunlight.
TemperatureLobelias thrive in moderate temperatures and can generally handle temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for Waterfall White Sparkle Lobelia is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants may not survive frost and should be protected or brought indoors if temperatures are expected to drop below 50 degrees.
PruningPruning is essential for maintaining the health and vigor of the Lobelia plant. It encourages bushier growth and continuous blooms. Pinch back the tips of the Lobelia every few weeks during the growing season to promote denser foliage and additional flowering. The best time to prune is after a flush of blooms begins to fade. Remove spent flowers and any yellowing leaves to keep the plant attractive and healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Lobelia erinus (also known as Edging Lobelia or Garden Lobelia) is light, fertile, and well-draining. It should be rich in organic matter with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. A mixture of peat, loam, and perlite or sand is ideal to ensure good drainage and aeration.
RepottingEdging Lobelia should be repotted annually or when the pot is visibly crowded. This typically means repotting in early spring before the growing season starts to provide fresh nutrients and space for root growth.
Humidity & MistingEdging Lobelia thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. While it can tolerate a range, consistent humidity around 50-70% is best for optimal growth and flowering.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, keep soil moist, protect from extreme heat.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleLobelia erinus 'Waterfall White Sparkle' begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in late winter to early spring under cover as they require warmth to germinate. After germination, the seedlings grow and develop a set of true leaves, at which point they are ready to be transplanted into individual pots or final growing locations, provided the risk of frost has passed. As a young plant, it undergoes vegetative growth, developing a compact, bushy habit with green foliage, before entering the flowering stage in late spring to summer, producing white flowers with a central splash of light blue or violet. Throughout the blooming period, which can last until the first frosts of fall, deadheading spent blooms encourages further flowering. As an annual in most climates, after flowering, the plant sets seed and eventually succumbs to frost or senescence, completing its life cycle. Seeds can be collected for sowing the following year, or the plant will self-seed if conditions allow.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Lobelia erinus 'Waterfall White Sparkle' is through seed sowing. Seeds can be started indoors about 10 to 12 weeks before the last frost date. Sow the tiny seeds on the surface of a well-draining, seed-starting mix, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). Typically, germination occurs within 14 to 21 days. Once seedlings have grown enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
