Lobelia

Best Lobelia Plants In NZ!

Growing colourful plants such Lobelia in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They attract birds and bees.
• It helps to preserve New Zealand’s species.
• Greater biodiversity is created.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have a range of Lobelia varieties that are perfect as groundcover, border, or perennial plants, and we’ll help you find the right one for your space. Choose from a wide variety of New Zealand grown plants that have been bred to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Lobelia, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Lobelia Questions

1. When should you plant lobelia?

The best time to plant lobelia depends on your climate. In general, lobelia should be planted in the spring, after the last frost.

2. Does Lobelia come back every year?

Lobelia is typically grown as an annual. However, there are a few perennial varieties, such as Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia tupa, and Lobelia angulata which can come back every year in mild climates. The only thing stopping them coming back each year is generally frost, which kills the plants.

3. Where is the best place to plant lobelia?

The best place to plant Lobelia depends on the variety you are growing. Annual lobelia prefers full sun to partial shade and a well-drained site. Perennial lobelia tends to tolerate more shade.

4. Is lobelia safe for dogs and cats?

Lobelia is toxic to dogs and cats. All parts of the plant are poisonous, but the leaves and flowers are the most toxic. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, seizures, and even death.

5. How poisonous is lobelia?

All parts of the lobelia plant are considered poisonous to humans and animals. The toxicity of lobelia is due to the presence of alkaloids, such as lobeline and nicotine. These alkaloids can cause:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Seizures
• Coma

6. Why is Lobelia so hard to grow?

Lobelia is not inherently difficult to grow, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some of the reasons why you may be having difficulties:

1. Temperature Sensitivity: Lobelia prefers mild temperatures, ideally between 60-75°F (16-24°C). In excessively hot or cold conditions, it may struggle to survive.
2. Water Requirements: Lobelia needs consistently moist soil, but it is sensitive to overwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can quickly kill the plant.
3. Soil Conditions: Lobelia prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH. In heavy or poorly drained soil, it may not grow well.
4. Sunlight Needs: Lobelia generally thrives in full sun to partial shade. In areas with excessive shade, it may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
5. Transplanting Sensitivity: Lobelia can be sensitive to transplanting. Disturbance to the roots can cause stress and affect its growth.
6. Fertiliser Requirements: Lobelia needs regular feeding during its growing season. Insufficient nutrients can limit its growth and flowering.
7. Pest and Disease Susceptibility: Lobelia is susceptible to certain pests and diseases, such as aphids, mealybugs, and fungal diseases. These can damage the plant and reduce its vitality.
8. Species Variations: Different species of lobelia have varying requirements and sensitivities. It's important to understand the specific needs of the particular variety you're growing.

By understanding these challenges and providing the appropriate care, you can successfully grow lobelia and enjoy its vibrant blooms.

7. Why does Lobelia stop blooming?

Lobelia is a flowering plant that typically blooms from spring to autumn. However, there are several reasons why a plant might stop flowering.

1. Temperature Stress: They prefer mild temperatures, ideally between 60-75°F (16-24°C). In excessively hot or cold conditions, it may stop flowering. Prolonged exposure to temperatures outside this range can trigger dormancy or even cause the plant to die.
2. Water Stress: Lobelia needs consistently moist soil, but it is sensitive to both overwatering and underwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can prevent the plant from blooming. On the other hand, underwatering can also cause stress and reduce flowering.
3. Nutrient Deficiency: Lobelia needs regular fertilization during its growing season. Insufficient nutrients, particularly phosphorus, can limit its growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants every few weeks.
4. Inadequate Sunlight: Lobelia generally thrives in full sun to partial shade. In areas with excessive shade, it may become leggy and produce fewer flowers. Ensure your lobelia plant receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
5. Pest or Disease Infestation: Pests like aphids and mealybugs can damage the plant and reduce its flowering potential. Similarly, fungal diseases like Botrytis can cause bud and flower blight. Regularly inspect your lobelia plant for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate control measures.
6. Natural Blooming Cycle: Lobelia plants have a natural blooming cycle, and their flowering may decline towards the end of the season. They may also enter a temporary dormancy period during cold or dry periods.
7. Aging or Overcrowding: As lobelia plants mature, their flowering may become less vigorous. Overcrowding can also reduce flowering due to competition for resources. Divide your lobelia plants in the spring to maintain their vitality and flowering potential.
8. Pruning Issues: If you prune lobelia plants too severely, you may remove flowering stems. Prune only lightly to remove dead or damaged foliage and avoid cutting into new growth that will produce flowers.
9. Variety Selection: Different species and cultivars of lobelia have varying blooming habits and lengths. Choose a variety that is well-suited to your climate and conditions for consistent flowering.

By addressing these potential causes, you can encourage your lobelia plant to resume its vibrant blooming and enhance your garden's beauty.