perennial

Fan Scarlet Lobelia

Lobelia speciosa 'Fan Scarlet'

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:

Ornamental UsesBright red flowers add vibrant color to gardens and attract pollinators, enhancing ecological diversity.
Practical UsesProvides a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant option for shaded garden beds.
Ecological BenefitsSupports beneficial insects and hummingbirds, promoting garden health.
SpeciesLobelia speciosaHybrid Lobelia

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

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season.
  3. Place in partial shade for best color development.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed.
  5. Pinch back dead growth to encourage bushiness.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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

Colorful borderPollinator-friendly garden

Companion Plants

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.

Keep exploring

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.