Upright Lobelia
lobelia urens
Also known as: ["Upright Lobelia","Upright Kalmia","Upright Lobelia"]
Overview
A small herbaceous plant with delicate blue or purple flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Genus: | Lobelia |
| Botanical Name: | Lobelia urens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if grown indoors in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; water deeply to encourage root growth; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and compost; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (10–20°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure drainage holes; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with peat moss if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root damage in freezing conditions; reduces flowering.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cloche or mulch; move potted plants indoors during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Lobelia urens, which can induce severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, including respiratory distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe alkaloids in Lobelia urens can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects in dogs, potentially leading to respiratory depression.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLobelia urens contains lobeline and other alkaloids that act as respiratory stimulants and can cause significant physiological effects, including nausea, vomiting, and changes in blood pressure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lobelia urens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Lobelia urens is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for Lobelia urens?
A: Lobelia urens prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Q: Does Lobelia urens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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