Lobelia erinus Purple Star - Trailing Lobelia

Lobelia 'Purple Star' is a rather fantastic new hybrid that from afar resembles a cloud-like ball of lovely purple-violet. Nothing stops the flowering and growth of this excellent early and floriferous variety, not even the scorching heat of midsummer. Vigorous, flowering until the first frosts, with a dense and slightly trailing habit, this annual creates an enchanting and long-lasting display, even in full sun, confidently filling hanging baskets and balconies. Essential in summer compositions!

Lobelia 'Purple Star' is a plant from the Campanulaceae family of horticultural origin. It is derived from, among others, Lobelia erinus, a South African annual species, a must-have for container gardening. In one season the numerous slender and ramified stems of the 'Purple Star' variety form a ball at least 30cm (12in) high and 35cm (14in) wide. Its small alternate, obovate and slightly serrated leaves provide a backdrop for the multitude of medium-sized flowers that bloom throughout the summer. As they elongate, the flower spikes bear clustered flowers. Their corollas measure 2cm (1in) in width and 1.8cm (1in) in height and are composed of 2 very thin petals in the upper part and 3 larger petals in the lower part. They are regularly visited by pollinating insects.

Lobelia 'Purple Star' finds its place as a standalone plant, in a pot, brightening every corner of courtyards and terraces. It blends in with the pastel shades of other pink, mauve, sky blue, or white varieties, in a very romantic spirit, as well as harmonising with the softness of petunias, the silver foliage of helichrysum, and the whiteness of verbenas. Its violet colour also pleasantly contrasts with the pale yellow of bidens, vanilla marigolds, or million bells lemon petunias, especially since its exuberant growth is not likely to be overshadowed by its more cumbersome neighbours. You can also associate it with other trailing plants like Indian mint or Dichondra Silver Falls. You can even plant it as an edging plant, especially if you have a small garden, preferably in a sunny (not scorching) or semi-shaded area. The fascinating spectacle of its flowering never tires; this little plant will always find a place near the house.

Note: Please be aware that our young plug plants are professional products reserved for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant and store them in sheltered areas (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame etc.) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) for a few weeks before being planted outdoors once the risk of frost has definitively passed.