Species

Lobelia erinusEdging Lobelia

10 other cultivars

perennial

Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia

Lobelia erinus 'Fountain Rose'

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial, typically grown as a cool-weather annual, known for its profuse, small, five-lobed flowers. It has a mounding or trailing habit with slender stems and small, narrow green leaves, blooming from spring until the first frost.

Part of the 'Fountain' series, this cultivar is prized for its trailing, cascading habit and masses of vibrant rose-pink flowers. It exhibits better heat tolerance than many older varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple blooms and trailing habit ideal for borders and containers.

Easy to grow with minimal care, suitable for beginner gardeners.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.

SpeciesLobelia erinusEdging Lobelia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

Water

Keep soil consistently moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Tender perennial, typically grown as an annual

Native To

Southern Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Plant in well-draining soil with partial sun for optimal growth.
Fertilize monthly during the growing season to encourage flowering.
Pinch back stems to promote bushier growth and more blooms.
Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged, especially in hot weather.

Pro Tip

Use bright indirect light for cuttings to enhance rooting success.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 💧
Pinch back stems to encourage bushy growth 🌿
Fertilize monthly during the growing season for vibrant blooms
Provide partial sun for healthy development

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely between watering
Refrain from using heavy, poorly draining soil
Avoid excessive fertilization which can lead to leggy growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid purple-flowered borderTrailing accent in hanging basketsColorful groundcover in containers

Companion Plants

Marigolds Petunias Sweet Potato Vine Lantana Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia questions

What zones can Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia grow in?

Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia deer resistant?

Yes — Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia bloom?

Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia typically blooms in spring, summer, fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia need full sun?

Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.