Species

Lobelia siphiliticaGreat Blue Lobelia

1 other cultivar

‘Lilac Candles’Lilac Candles Great Blue Lobelia

perennialN. America Native

Blue Lobelia

Lobelia siphilitica 'White Candles'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lobelia siphilitica 'White Candles' is a perennial herbaceous plant with upright stems, lush green foliage, and tall spikes of pure white tubular flowers that attract pollinators and add elegance to borders.

This cultivar is distinguished by its pure white flowers, which provide a striking contrast in garden arrangements and are especially attractive in shaded or woodland settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant blue flowers that attract pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Prefers moist, shaded areas, making it ideal for wet or shaded garden spots.

Supports bees and hummingbirds, promoting pollination and local ecosystem health.

SpeciesLobelia siphiliticaGreat Blue Lobelia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in early spring
Keep soil consistently moist during growing season
Place in partial shade for best flowering
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize monthly with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer
Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize monthly during growing season 🌱

Don't

Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
Over-fertilize to avoid excessive foliage
Neglect deadheading flowers
Expose to full, hot sun for prolonged periods

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Pollinator-friendly borderShaded woodland garden accentMoisture-loving perennial bed

Companion Plants

Ferns AstilbeJapanese Iris Cinnamon Fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Lobelia questions

What zones can Blue Lobelia grow in?

Blue 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 Blue Lobelia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Blue Lobelia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Blue Lobelia bloom?

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

Does Blue Lobelia need full sun?

Blue Lobelia does best in part shade.