Sparkling bright blue blooms smother the plants almost from planting time right through the season. The plant has a neat habit holding its form well. Flowering through into summer is often seen if light pruning is done to remove spent blooms which encourage new growth and flowering.
Lobelia are ideal for massing with other low growing winter and spring colour in garden beds. It has a long flowering period. Plant into fertile soils which have been well prepared. Plant in full sun and keep plants well watered until they are established. In gardens of today where garden pots are so popular, Lobelia are a good choice. A potting media with good drainage but with water holding qualities is ideal.
Location is the key to success with Lobelias. They need a well draining garden bed or container in full sun to part shade for some of the day. Keep the soils evenly moist and mulch to conserve moisture and keep the soil cooler. Once plants are established a regular but diluted liquid feeding programme every two weeks or so is beneficial. Insect pests and other diseases are not a serious problem. A light prune when plants are beginning to look a bit sad together with an application of a balanced fertilizer will promote new growth and another crop of flowers.
Lobelias are native to North America, South America and Southern Africa but Lobelia erinus from which Lucia Dark Blue is bred and selected is South African in origin. There are many selections of Lobelia erinus grown in gardens around the world.