annual

Dark Blue Trailing Lobelia

Lobelia erinus 'Dark Blue'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lobelia erinus 'Dark Blue' is a trailing perennial commonly grown as an annual, featuring vibrant blue flowers that bloom abundantly.

Known for its rich dark blue color, it creates a striking contrast in flower beds and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides vibrant dark blue cascading flowers, perfect for borders and containers.
Practical UsesEasy to grow and maintain with minimal care, attracts pollinators.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinator activity, beneficial for garden biodiversity.
SpeciesLobelia erinusEdging Lobelia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

10

Water

Regular, moist soil

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly and keep in bright, indirect light for rooting.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed during active growth.
  5. Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
  6. Divide mature plants every 2-3 years in early spring to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and ensure good air circulation for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Provide full sun to partial shade for optimal blooming
  • Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous flowering
  • Feed with a balanced fertilizer monthly

Don't

  • Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
  • Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings ❌
  • Place in deep shade which can hinder flowering
  • Neglect pruning which keeps plants tidy

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border plant with cascading dark blue flowersWildflower garden accent with rich color contrastContainer display with trailing habit

Companion Plants

PetuniaVerbenaLantanaMarigold Sweet Potato Vine

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dark Blue Trailing Lobelia questions

What zones can Dark Blue Trailing Lobelia grow in?

Dark Blue 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 Dark Blue Trailing Lobelia deer resistant?

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

When does Dark Blue Trailing Lobelia bloom?

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

Does Dark Blue Trailing Lobelia need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Dark Blue Trailing 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.