Lobelia siphilitica, commonly called great lobelia or blue cardinal flower, is a perennial which typically grows in moist to wet locations along streams, sloughs, springs, swamps, meadows and in low wooded areas. A clump-forming perennial which features light to dark blue, tubular, 2-lipped flowers. Flowers arise from the upper leaf axils forming a dense terminal raceme atop stiff, unbranched, leafy stalks typically rising 2-3′ tall. Finely-toothed, lance-shaped, light green leaves (to 5″ long). Late summer bloom period.
Easily grown in rich, humusy, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Needs constant moisture. Prefers part shade in Texas, but will tolerate full sun in colder, northern climates. Divide clumps in spring as needed. May self-seed in optimum growing conditions, forming attractive colonies.
Height: 2′-3′ Spread: 1′-1.5′ Bloom: July-September Light: Part Shade-Dappled Shade Water: Medium-High Zone: 4-9 Origin: Texas, central U.S. and Canada
