Hairy Lobelia
lobelia puberula
Also known as: ["Vasey’s Lobelia","Pubescent Lobelia"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial native to North America, known for its delicate purple flowers and pubescent stems and leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Genus: | Lobelia |
| Botanical Name: | Lobelia puberula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed with good moisture retention
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); protect from intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; place in dappled shade during peak summer hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade in afternoon; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots sit in water; adjust watering based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize lightly to prevent overgrowth; stop in late fall; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag if needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers by cutting just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and blooming.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or blackening of foliage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch for in-ground plants; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Lobelia puberula, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. The alkaloids in the plant can lead to respiratory depression and other serious health issues in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lobelia puberula can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological effects, and respiratory distress due to the presence of toxic alkaloids. The plant's effects can be particularly dangerous for smaller dogs or those with pre-existing health conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLobelia puberula contains lobeline and other alkaloids that can cause significant physiological effects, including respiratory depression, neuromuscular effects, and cardiovascular disturbances. The plant's toxicity is due to its ability to interfere with the nervous system and respiratory functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lobelia puberula toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Lobelia puberula attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with Lobelia puberula?
A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Campanulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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