Great Blue Lobelia Lobelia siphilitica 100 Seeds USA Company

Lobelia siphilitica, commonly known as the Great Blue Lobelia or Blue Cardinal Flower, is a perennial flowering plant native to North America. Here's a description:

Appearance: It typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimeters), though it can sometimes reach up to 4 feet (120 centimeters). The plant has an erect, sturdy stem with lance-shaped, toothed leaves that are usually dark green. The flowers are the main attraction, featuring vibrant, tubular blossoms that are a striking shade of blue. Each flower has two lips, with the upper lip divided into two lobes and the lower lip into three, creating an attractive contrast.

Habitat: Lobelia siphilitica is commonly found in moist to wet habitats, such as stream banks, wet meadows, and marshes. It prefers rich, loamy soil and partial shade, although it can tolerate full sun if the soil remains consistently moist.

Blooming Period: The plant typically blooms from mid-summer to early fall, producing clusters of flowers atop the stems. The blossoms attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens.

Cultural and Medicinal Significance: Historically, some Native American tribes used Lobelia siphilitica for medicinal purposes, although its efficacy and safety for such uses are debated. It's important to note that the plant contains alkaloids that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, so caution should be exercised.

Gardening: In garden settings, Lobelia siphilitica can be a stunning addition to borders, wildflower gardens, or naturalized areas with moist soil. It pairs well with other native perennials and can help add vertical interest to the landscape. It's relatively low maintenance but benefits from regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. Hardy in zones 4-8.

Growing Instructions for the Great Blue Lobelia

The seeds can be sown at any time of the year but the germination is improved with a period of cold temperatures to break their dormancy. 1. Put the seeds in a ziplock bag. 3. Put the bag in the refrigerator and leave it there for 30-60 days. 4. The seeds like moist soil. Put some soil in a pot. 5. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them into the soil. The seeds need light to germinate. 7. Water the soil. The seeds germinate in 2-3 weeks.