Description
Lobelia fistulosa | Giant Purple Lobelia
Lobelia fistulosa is a giant Brazilian Lobelia. Starts out as a big, bold and beautiful green rosette reaching 3’ tall and 40” across in the 1st year. Like many showstopping perennial plants the real show comes on during the second year, and thereafter when it reaches 6-8’, topped with 2’ pale-purple tubular flower spikes that appear in Spring and continue blooming for 3 months. Plants are strong, upright and wind resistant.
Naturally found in forest margins in Eastern Brazil. Thrives when provided with rich, organic, well-drained soil and partial sun during the hottest days of summer. Hardy to 25-28 degrees F. Does great in a large container, too. May benefit to plant in the garden for the summer and then dig up and keep frost free overwinter.
Giant Purple Lobelia attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and bees.
Type: Biennial
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 6-8+ ft
Mature width: 2.5-3.5 ft
Hardiness zones: 9-11