Lobelia erinus Hot Springs Lavender

Lobelia erinus, commonly known as Hot Springs Lavender, is a stunning flowering plant that adds a touch of purple-medium blue violet-N082C to any garden. While it is not hardy in colder regions (USDA-zones 9, 10, 11), it thrives in warmer climates.

One of the advantages of Lobelia erinus is that it does not have any special demands when it comes to soil fertility. It can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are reasonably well-drained. This makes it a versatile option for many gardeners, especially those who have less fertile soil.

The plant displays ovate (egg-shaped) and elongate leaves, which are dark green in color and contribute to its overall beauty. The leaves, measuring between 3-4 cm in length and 2-3 cm in width, provide an attractive backdrop to the vibrant flowers.

Speaking of flowers, Lobelia erinus produces small flowers with a diameter of 1.5-2 cm. The inflorescence is in the form of a raceme, allowing multiple flowers to bloom at once. These delicate blooms can be seen from April to August, adding color and charm to the garden throughout the spring and summer months.

The flowers themselves are quite petite, with lengths ranging from 1-1.5 cm. Their unicolored appearance gives them a simple yet elegant appeal. The purple-medium blue violet-N082C hue stands out against the dark green leaves, creating a visually stunning contrast.

In terms of growth habit, Lobelia erinus can either be pendulous or erect, depending on the specific variety. This makes it a versatile choice for different garden designs. Whether you want to create cascades of flowers in hanging baskets or plant them as borders or groundcover, this plant can adapt accordingly.

When it comes to light conditions, Lobelia erinus thrives in both sunny and semi-shaded areas. It appreciates receiving direct sunlight for a significant portion of the day but can tolerate some shade. This flexibility allows gardeners to place it in various locations and still achieve beautiful results.

As for moisture requirements, Lobelia erinus prefers moist soil. It thrives in humus-rich soil types that retain moisture well. Regular watering is necessary to keep the plant healthy and thriving. However, it is essential to avoid waterlogged conditions, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.

In conclusion, Lobelia erinus Hot Springs Lavender is a delightful flowering plant that brings a burst of color to any garden. With its unicolored purple-medium blue violet-N082C flowers, dark green ovate leaves, and compact size of 10-20 cm in height, it is an excellent choice for borders, hanging baskets, or groundcovers. While it requires moist soil and appreciates sunny or semi-shaded conditions, it does not have any special demands, making it suitable for various garden settings. Although it is not winter-hardy in colder regions, it is a favorite among gardeners in warmer climates, blooming from April to August and adding beauty to the landscape.

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