perennial

Fan Orchid Rose Lobelia

Lobelia speciosa 'Fan Orchid Rose'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lobelia x speciosa 'Fan Orchid Rose' is a perennial shrub known for its dense, bushy growth and vibrant rose-pink flowers that resemble orchids, often blooming in late summer to fall.

This cultivar is distinguished by its large, showy flowers and its ability to attract hummingbirds and pollinators, making it a striking addition to borders and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright, vibrant flowers attract pollinators and enhance garden visual appeal.
Practical UsesProvides a colorful border that is easy to care for.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees and butterflies with nectar-rich blooms.
SpeciesLobelia speciosaHybrid Lobelia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Regular moisture, avoid waterlogging

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
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S
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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. Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
  3. Provide partial shade in hot climates.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
  5. Pinch back to encourage bushiness.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers for prolonged blooming.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining loam soil and protect from harsh afternoon sun.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to promote more blooms
  • Fertilize monthly during growing season
  • Provide partial shade in hot climates

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid heavy, compacted clay soils
  • Don’t expose to full harsh sun in summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with fragrant flowersPollinator-friendly garden bedContainer plant for patios

Companion Plants

Marigolds Petunias SalviaLantanaCoreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fan Orchid Rose Lobelia questions

What zones can Fan Orchid Rose Lobelia grow in?

Fan Orchid Rose Lobelia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fan Orchid Rose Lobelia deer resistant?

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

When does Fan Orchid Rose Lobelia bloom?

Fan Orchid Rose 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 Orchid Rose Lobelia need full sun?

Fan Orchid Rose Lobelia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Fan Orchid Rose 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.