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:
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
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly and keep in bright, indirect light for rooting.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed during active growth.
- Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
- 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
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
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.
More Lobelia to compare

Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis

Fan Cinnabar Rose Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa 'Fan Cinnabar Rose'

Lilac Candles Great Blue Lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica 'Lilac Candles'

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

Hybrid Cardinal Flower
Lobelia speciosa 'Compliment Violet'

Cardinal Flower Deep Rose
Lobelia cardinalis 'Deep Rose'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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.











