Lobelia erinus, also known as edging lobelia, is an annual flowering plant native to Europe, Africa and the Mediterranean region. It is an easy-to-grow and low-maintenance garden plant that produces masses of delicate, blue, pink, or white flowers.
It has a wide range of uses in the garden, from adding a splash of colour to rockeries and containers, to creating a low-growing carpet of colour in beds and borders. Not only is it a beautiful addition to any garden, but it is also a great choice for attracting bees and other beneficial insects. With its delicate flowers and attractive foliage, Lobelia erinus is a great choice for any garden.
Benefits of growing lobelia erinus
As a UK garden expert, I can tell you that Lobelia erinus is a great annual flower that should be grown in any garden! It is an adaptable and easy-to-care-for species, which provides beautiful blooms in colors that range from deep purple to pale blues and pinks.
Not only that, but Lobelia erinus also has many additional benefits. First, Lobelia erinus grows quickly, meaning you’ll see results faster than other flowers. And, if you plant them in a sunny spot and make sure to water them regularly, you’ll be rewarded with a full display of flowers in no time.
Additionally, the Lobelia erinus’ vines and foliage cascades naturally, so you won’t have to worry about staking the stems. Lobelia erinus’ blooms also bring an enticing look to your outdoor area.
They provide a welcome burst of color in any environment and can be used alone, in a container, or planted among other plants. They’re wonderful in a hanging basket, providing a pop of bright color on your porch or patio. Plus, the Lobelia erinus is a good pollen source for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
If you’re looking to help sustain your local wildlife, planting this species will provide a needed source of food and give you the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping the environment. In conclusion, Lobelia erinus is a beautiful, easy-to-care-for flower that is an excellent choice for any garden.
It provides rich blooms, cascades naturally, and even offers a food source for your local wildlife. So, consider adding Lobelia erinus to your garden this season and reap the benefits of this wonderful flower!
Tips for growing lobelia erinus
As a UK gardening expert, I often get asked about growing Lobelia erinus, more commonly known as a ‘Trailing Lobelia’. As a hardy annual, it is relatively easy to look after in the spring and summer months and can provide a bright and cheerful display in any garden. It has become increasing popular in recent years as it is incredibly easy to maintain and rejuvenate from year to year.
For optimum success, Lobelia erinus should be planted in a bright and sunny location that doesn’t become too hot in the summer months. It is important to ensure the soil is kept light and well-draining as it does not need moisture-laden ground to thrive.
When planting the seedlings ensure they are positioned at least 20cm apart as they do spread and can quickly establish. Ensure that you water regularly, especially during hot spells and deadhead the flowers to encourage more blooms towards the end of the season. Feeding your Lobelia erinus during spring, as well as in midsummer, can help it grow and flower better providing some organic liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks.
It is important to keep them away from excessive rain and wind, so either choose a sheltered spot or provide some temporary protection in strong conditions. In the autumn months when the frost starts, Lobelia erinus will start to turn brown and die back naturally.
Annual pruning is also important to keep them bushy and to get the best flowering performance. Overall, although quite easy to look after, Lobelia erinus does require care and attention throughout the year to ensure it can produce year-on-year showings of vibrant blooms.
With the right conditions, it will look stunning safely through to autumn and be guaranteed to add that certain ‘something’ to any garden display.
Common problems with lobelia erinus
Lobelia erinus, also known as edging lobelia, is one of the most popular garden plants in the UK and is a low growing, evergreen annual. Although it is relatively easy to grow, there are a few common issues to watch out for when cultivating this charming plant.
The first issue to be aware of is Lobelia erinus’s susceptibility to disease. If planted in conditions that are too wet, it can suffer from mildew, which will be visible as white spots on the leaves. To prevent this, it’s best to water in the morning and ensure the soil drains well.
Additionally, avoid splashing any water onto the foliage, as this can cause fungal problems. Another problem with Lobelia erinus is the potential for it to become straggly and untidy in appearance.
To keep it from becoming untidy and avoid it from becoming overcrowded, it’s important to deadhead the flowers regularly and trim it back when necessary. Doing this also helps to promote more blooming, providing you with a vibrant and inviting display. Finally, Lobelia erinus is highly susceptible to aphids.
These tiny insects can cover the plant, hiding in the blooms, resulting in the flowers becoming deformed. To help reduce the risk of an aphid infestation, avoid using peat-based composts and only water the compost, not the leaves. Additionally, keep an eye out for any pests and remove them as soon as you can with an appropriate insecticide.
In conclusion, there are a few common problems to be aware of when growing Lobelia erinus. By following the appropriate care guidelines and monitoring the plant regularly, it can provide a colourful and attractive addition to any garden.
How to care for lobelia erinus
=>As a UK gardening expert, I know the importance of understanding how to properly care for Lobelia erinus, a type of annual flower commonly known as “Dwarf Lobelia”. It is a low-growing plant with attractive sky-blue flowers and dark green foliage.
Due to its small size and attractive flowers, Lobelia erinus is popular among gardeners who are looking for a long-lasting, easy to grow plant. One advantage to caring for Lobelia erinus is that it needs very little fuss and attention. It does best in well-drained, sandy soil in sunny, sheltered areas and will thrive in both partial shade and full sun.
When planted in groups, it produces an eye-catching show of airy flower heads. When watering Lobelia erinus, it’s important to keep the soil lightly moist, but not overly saturated.
Too much water or poor drainage can cause root rot. Another important part of helping Lobelia erinus thrive is deadheading spent blooms. This will encourage more flowers to appear throughout the growing season and keep the plant looking neat.
As a cool-weather flower, it’s important to provide some shelter from cold temperatures and excessive winds. A protective mulch such as bark chips or compost around the base of the plant will help protect the roots. Finally, fertilizing can help keep the plant healthy.
A liquid feed applied every two to three weeks during the peak growing season will help nourish the plant and keep it blooming. By following these few tips and understanding the conditions that Lobelia erinus needs, gardeners can enjoy a beautiful splash of colour and a tremendous show of flowers.
With the right care, these stunning bloomers will reward you with a stunning display for many seasons.
Our video recommendation
Conclusion
Lobelia erinus, commonly known as edging lobelia, is an annual flowering plant native to Europe, Africa and Asia. It is a low-growing plant with bright blue flowers and dark green foliage.
It is often used as an edging plant in flower beds, and its flowers attract bees, butterflies and other pollinators. It is easy to grow, and can be planted in full sun or partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant and will bloom from spring to fall.
Lobelia erinus is a great addition to any garden.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of Lobelia erinus?
The scientific name of Lobelia erinus is Lobelia erinus L.
What is the common name of Lobelia erinus?
The common name of Lobelia erinus is edging lobelia.
What are the characteristics of Lobelia erinus?
Lobelia erinus is an annual flowering plant with blue, purple, pink, or white flowers. It has a low-growing, spreading habit and is often used as a ground cover or edging plant. Its leaves are small and lance-shaped, and its flowers are borne in clusters. It is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun to partial shade.
What is the ideal growing environment for Lobelia erinus?
The ideal growing environment for Lobelia erinus is a moist, well-drained soil in a sunny to partially shaded location. It prefers a soil pH of 6.0-7.0 and should be watered regularly.
How often should Lobelia erinus be watered?
Lobelia erinus should be watered every 1-2 days, depending on the temperature and humidity levels.
What type of soil is best for Lobelia erinus?
Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil is best for Lobelia erinus.
