Lobelia montana

Synonyms

Pratia montana

Herbaceous Perennial

A easy-to-grow, clump-forming deciduous perennial species to around 30cm in height, with strong, arching stems and narrow, oval-shaped green leaves, purple underneath. Green to purple-white veined flowers appear from July to September, followed by bright purple, berry-like seed pods

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Campanulaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eatenskin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eatenskin irritant. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Lobelia can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with simple leaves and showy 2-lipped flowers that may be solitary or in racemes or panicles
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Plant in deep, fertile, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer until midsummer and a low nitrogen fertilizer for the remainder of the growing season. Protect the crown of the plant during winter with a thick, dry mulch

Propagation

Propagate by division of large clumps of plants every second year in the spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Cut down faded flower spikes in autumn

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs

Diseases

May be susceptible to crown rot and a virus