Description :
Lobelia, also known as Indian tobacco, is easily grown in average, moist but well-drained soils in full sun. This plant is characterized by its pale purple flowers and yellow center, with hairy stems. Its dried herb and seed was traditionally used by Native Americans as a medicine and for ceremonial purposes. It is said to help the respiratory system, but is toxic in large doses, so it is not recommended to chew or smoke.
Type: Annual
Family: Campanulaceae
Native Range:
Growing Zones: 3-9
Mature Height: 12-15 inches
Mature Width: 6-9 inches
Sowing: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Barely cover seed. Needs light to germinate.
Sow depth: ¼ in
Days to Germinate: 7-14 @ 70F
Special Maintenance: n/a
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil Type: Average
Water: Average
Drought Tolerance: Moderate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Leaf Description:
Bloom Time: Summer-Fall, June-October
Bloom Description: Tiny, purple
Harvest: Flowering tops, Seed
Harvest Time: Summer-Fall, June-October
Special Properties: Bees, Butterflies, Pollinators, Deer resistant, **toxic in large doses