Lobelia erinus pendula Regatta Mix

Lobelia pendula 'Regatta' in a mix of colors is characterised by a very attractive habit, both cushion-like and trailing, wonderfully suited for hanging baskets. This selection brings together very early varieties with sky blue, navy blue, lilac pink, or even midnight blue flowers with bronze foliage, depending on the plants. These annuals create enchanting and long-lasting displays, even in the sun, confidently filling hanging baskets and balcony planters. Essential in summer arrangements!

The 'Regatta' Lobelia is a beautiful improvement on the 'Cascade', flowering about 15 days earlier. It is a plant from the Campanulaceae family, of horticultural origin. It comes from the Lobelia erinus pendula, a South African annual species with a trailing habit. The numerous fairly long and branched stems of these 'Regatta' varieties form over one season a slightly trailing bushy clump, 20 to 30 cm (11.8 in) high and at least 30 cm (11.8 in) wide. The very small persistent, alternate, obovate, and slightly serrated leaves create a beautiful dark green background (or bronze in the midnight blue variety) for the multitude of flowers that renew themselves for almost 5 months. As they elongate, the flower spikes bear clustered flowers. Their corollas measure 0.5 mm to 2 cm (0.8 in) in width. They are tubular before flaring out widely while keeping bilateral symmetry. The upper lip is composed of two raised tufts and the lower lip is divided into three larger petals, fused at the base. The throat is usually white, highlighting the color of the rest of the flower. Flowers are regularly visited by pollinating insects. It is not uncommon for Lobelias to self-seed: the young plants, which do not tolerate cold, should spend the winter in a bright room kept frost-free.

The 'Regatta' Lobelia works wonders in hanging baskets or pots, illuminating every corner of courtyards and terraces with its intensely fresh flowering. It blends in with white varieties for a very romantic feel, and also matches the softness of petunias, the silver foliage of Helicrysum petiolare (Gnaphalium), and the whiteness of Verbena. You can even plant it along the edge of a flowerbed, especially if you have a small garden, preferably in full sun or partial shade. The fascinating spectacle of its flowering never tires and keeps surprising; this little plant is bound to find itself a place close to the house.

Please note that our young plants in mini-plugs are professional products intended for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant and store them under shelter (veranda, greenhouse, frame) at a temperature above 14C° for a few weeks before planting outside once all risk of frost has passed.