We are perhaps more familiar with garden Lobelia as being forms of Lobelia erinus, grown as half-hardy annuals for summer bedding and containers. However, there are also a large number of perennial forms that offer the gardener delightful colour and form throughout the growing season. All of the perennial forms have flowers that are unlike any other – comprising a tube, flaring into five lobes, almost making a face, and perhaps up to 2.5cm or more across; the three lower lobes are large and fan-like, whereas the upper two are smaller and usually curved back. These blooms are carried on flower spikes, and they may be densely-packed. Another characteristic of Lobelia is that the blooms open from the bottom upwards.

Most forms of Lobelia like a moist, well-cultivated fertile soil, and a situation in full sun or part-shade. They need a good supply of water in hot, dry weather as they dislike drying out – note that some Lobelias are aquatic in nature, actually growing in water. Lobelia plants should ideally be mulched before winter, to help protect the roots from frost. Alternatively, if you live in a cold area, it would be wise to lift your Lobelia plants and over-winter them in a frost-free greenhouse.