Candy Corn Lobelia
Lobelia laxiflora 'Candy Corn'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average to high
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Central America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Lobelia laxiflora 'Candy Corn' is known for its unique bright orange flowers and ability to thrive in various soil types. This cultivar features a distinctive color pattern and is more drought-tolerant than other Lobelia species.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 sets of true leaves, after the last frost.
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil with organic matter and ensure good air circulation for healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide bright, indirect sunlight
- Deadhead to promote flowering
- Apply organic compost annually
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Expose to harsh direct afternoon sun in hot climates
- Neglect pruning to maintain shape
- Use chemical fertilizers excessively ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Candy Corn Lobelia questions
What zones can Candy Corn Lobelia grow in?
Candy Corn Lobelia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Candy Corn Lobelia deer resistant?
Yes — Candy Corn Lobelia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Candy Corn Lobelia bloom?
Candy Corn 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 Candy Corn Lobelia need full sun?
Candy Corn Lobelia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Candy Corn Lobelia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Candy Corn Lobelia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Lobelia to compare
Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis
Fan Cinnabar Rose Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa 'Fan Cinnabar Rose'
Hybrid Cardinal Flower
Lobelia speciosa 'Compliment Violet'
Lilac Candles Great Blue Lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica 'Lilac Candles'
Cardinal Flower 'Black Truffle'
Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'
Cardinal Flower Deep Rose
Lobelia cardinalis 'Deep Rose'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Candy Corn 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.