Edging Lobelia Lobelia erinus 'Sapphire'
ABOUT
The Lobelia erinus 'Sapphire', commonly known as the Sapphire Lobelia, is an ornamental plant known for its lush foliage and striking blossoms. The leaves of this plant are small and predominantly green, providing a delicate backdrop for the flowers. As the name 'Sapphire' suggests, the blooms exhibit a vivid blue hue, which adds a jewel-like quality to gardens. The flowers themselves are tubular, with split upper lobes and fuller lower lobes, creating a graceful, two-lipped appearance. This contrast of the bright blue petals against the green foliage makes the Sapphire Lobelia a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sapphire Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia, Garden Lobelia, Edging Lobelia, Bedding Lobelia
Common names
Lobelia erinus 'Sapphire'.
ToxicityTo humans
Lobelia, which includes Lobelia erinus 'Sapphire', contains several alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in significant quantities. Lobelia has been used historically in medicinal preparations, but it can cause adverse effects. Symptoms of lobelia poisoning in humans may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, dizziness, convulsions, and tremors. Severe cases can lead to hypotension, coma, and potentially death from respiratory failure, though such extreme reactions are rare. The greatest risk is usually with substantial ingestion, and it is commonly recommended to keep this plant out of reach of children who might accidentally consume it.
To pets
Lobelia's toxicity to pets, like dogs and cats, is similar to its toxicity to humans. It contains a variety of alkaloids that can be harmful if pets ingest parts of the plant. Possible symptoms of lobelia poisoning in pets can include excess salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and lethargy. In severe cases, ingestion can potentially lead to seizures, a rapid or slowed heartbeat, extremely low blood pressure, or even coma. Therefore, it's important to prevent pets from having access to this plant and to seek veterinary attention immediately if there is suspicion that a pet has ingested lobelia.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Sapphire
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant blue flowers to gardens and containers, which can enhance the visual ambiance of the space.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being low-maintenance, making it suitable for novice gardeners or those with limited time.
- Compact Size: Its small stature allows it to fit well in containers, hanging baskets, and small garden spaces.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatility: Can be used in a variety of garden designs, including borders, rock gardens, and as groundcover.
- Seasonal Color: Provides a long flowering season, typically from spring through frost, offering sustained color in the garden.
- Deer Resistant: Less appealing to deer, which can help prevent garden damage in areas with a large deer population.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lobelia can be used as a ground cover in small garden spaces, creating a mat of green foliage with vibrant blue flowers, effectively suppressing weeds and reducing garden maintenance.
- In hanging baskets, Lobelia's cascading habit can create a waterfall-like effect of color and texture, adding visual interest to balconies and patios.
- The plant can be incorporated into fairy gardens due to its small size and delicate flowers, adding charm and a sense of whimsy to these miniature landscapes.
- Lobelia can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, offering a subtle shade of blue or green depending on the mordant used in the process.
- Pressed Lobelia flowers can be used in crafting, such as in homemade paper, bookmarks, or in resin jewelry, preserving their shape and color.
- As a seasonal decoration, fresh or dried Lobelia flowers can be added to wreaths or garlands for a touch of color and natural beauty.
- The plant's vibrant blooms can be used as a natural confetti for outdoor celebrations, providing an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic confetti.
- Lobelia can provide visual cues in gardens for zoning different areas, using its color to edge paths and define borders around different garden sections.
- In photography and art, the plant can serve as an appealing subject or backdrop due to its compact growth and vivid flowers, inspiring creative compositions.
- Lobelia flowers can be used in educational settings, such as biology classrooms or botanical studies, to teach students about plant anatomy and pollination.
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: Lobelia often symbolizes devotion or dedication due to its persistent and pervasive growth, echoing how feelings can permeate through one's life.
- Attraction: With its vibrant sapphire-blue flowers, lobelia can be associated with an attraction or magnetism, pulling in those who are captivated by its beauty.
- Distinction: The intense blue hue of the Sapphire Lobelia sets it apart from common flower colors, thereby symbolizing uniqueness or standing out from others.
- Healing: Traditionally, some species of lobelia have been used in herbal medicine, which can translate symbolically into healing, whether emotional or physical.
WaterThe Sapphire Lobelia prefers consistently moist soil, so it's crucial to water it whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Aim to provide water every few days, depending on the climate and weather conditions, with more frequent watering in hot, dry periods. On average, this might equate to approximately 1 gallon of water per week, although this will vary with local conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During the growing season, spring through fall, be particularly mindful of maintaining moisture without letting the soil become soggy.
LightSapphire Lobelia thrives best in full sun to partial shade. A spot that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade is ideal, especially in hotter climates to prevent scorching. Ensure it gets at least 3 to 4 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering.
TemperatureSapphire Lobelia prefers moderate temperatures and will perform best when conditions range between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but may suffer if temperatures dip much lower. During the hot summer months, it's important to provide some shade to prevent overheating, especially when temperatures climb above 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune Sapphire Lobelia to encourage a bushier growth habit and more abundant flowering. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Cut back foliage lightly in early summer if the plant begins to look leggy or untidy. The best time for a more substantial pruning is after the first flush of flowers has faded, to rejuvenate the plant for further blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLobelia, or trailing lobelia, thrives best in a well-draining soil mix comprised of peat, loam, and sand which promotes good aeration and moisture retention. Aim for a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5, somewhat on the acidic side, to ensure optimal growth and flowering.
RepottingTrailing lobelia often doesn't require frequent repotting as it is typically grown as an annual. However, if grown as a perennial in suitable climates, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingTrailing lobelia prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. To ensure best growth, maintain humidity around 40-50%, which is often the average indoor level.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place lobelia in bright, indirect light with good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade or morning sun, and shelter from hot afternoon rays.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleLobelia erinus 'Sapphire', known as Trailing Sapphire Lobelia, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown indoors six to ten weeks before the last expected frost. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and develops true leaves, at which point it can be transplanted outside after the threat of frost has passed. The plant enters its vegetative stage, producing a mat of verdant green foliage, before it blossoms, showcasing vibrant blue flowers throughout the summer months. As the growing season progresses, Trailing Sapphire Lobelia may produce seeds if the flowers are allowed to mature and are not deadheaded. With the arrival of colder weather, this annual plant will complete its life cycle, dying off after it sets seeds. Gardeners often collect the seeds or let the plant self-seed for regrowth in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
For Lobelia erinus 'Sapphire', commonly known as Sapphire Lobelia, the most popular method of propagation is through seed. These seeds can be sown in late winter to early spring, within a temperature range of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius). The tiny seeds should be sprinkled onto the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly pressed into the soil, but not covered, as they require light for germination. The seed tray should then be kept moist and placed in a bright area without direct sunlight. Germination usually occurs within 10 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
