annual

Fountain White Lobelia

Lobelia erinus 'Fountain White'

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial, typically grown as a cool-weather annual, forming a trailing mound of foliage covered in masses of small, pure white flowers from spring to first frost.

Excellent for containers and hanging baskets, providing a cascading effect.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesLobelia erinus Fountain White provides delicate, cascading white flowers, perfect for hanging baskets and borders, adding a soft, romantic touch.
Practical UsesIts dense growth can help suppress weeds in garden beds.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
SpeciesLobelia erinusEdging Lobelia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

10

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Tender perennial, grown as an annual

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested in large quantities

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to keep humidity high and roots developing.
  3. Plant in well-draining soil with partial sun for optimal growth.
  4. Water consistently, avoiding waterlogging to prevent root rot.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Use a lightweight, well-draining soil mix and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
  • Pinch back to encourage bushier growth
  • Apply balanced fertilizer during active growth

Don't

  • Overwater, leading to root rot ❌
  • Allow soil to dry out completely between watering ❌
  • Ignore deadheading, which reduces flowering ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Airy border plantDappled shade groundcover

Companion Plants

Marigold PetuniaSweet Potato Vine BegoniaImpatiens

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fountain White Lobelia questions

What zones can Fountain White Lobelia grow in?

Fountain White 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 Fountain White Lobelia deer resistant?

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

When does Fountain White Lobelia bloom?

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

Does Fountain White Lobelia need full sun?

Fountain White 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 Fountain White 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.