The Story
Plant Bio
Lobelia x speciosa 'Fan Scarlet' is a perennial with a bushy habit, featuring lush green foliage and vibrant, funnel-shaped scarlet flowers that create a striking display during the flowering season.
This cultivar is distinguished by its dense, fan-shaped flower clusters that provide a bold splash of color and are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and pollinators.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
28 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate to high
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Short-lived perennial
Native To
Hybrid of North American species
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season.
- Place in partial shade for best color development.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed.
- Pinch back dead growth to encourage bushiness.
- Mulch to retain soil moisture in hot climates.
Pro Tip
Ensure partial shade and moist, well-drained soil for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 💧
- Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
- Refrain from heavy pruning during winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fan Scarlet Lobelia questions
What zones can Fan Scarlet Lobelia grow in?
Fan Scarlet Lobelia is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Fan Scarlet Lobelia deer resistant?
Yes — Fan Scarlet Lobelia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Fan Scarlet Lobelia bloom?
Fan Scarlet Lobelia typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fan Scarlet Lobelia need full sun?
Fan Scarlet Lobelia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Lobelia to compare

Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis

Lilac Candles Great Blue Lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica 'Lilac Candles'

Fan Cinnabar Rose Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa 'Fan Cinnabar Rose'

Hybrid Cardinal Flower
Lobelia speciosa 'Compliment Violet'

Cardinal Flower 'Black Truffle'
Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'

Perrys White Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis 'Perrys White'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Fan Scarlet Lobelia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.









