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Lobelia 'Starship™ Scarlet Bronze Leaf'
Seed Packet

Lobelia 'Starship™ Scarlet Bronze Leaf'

Lobelia × speciosa
Lobelia x speciosa is a striking hybrid plant that results from crossing Lobelia cardinalis and L. siphilitica. The plant boasts large, brilliant red flower spikes that bloom in summer with dark-tinged stems and leaves that accentuate its beauty. Clusters of vivid flower spikes invariably attract the attention of garden visitors and those whirring, purposeful hummingbirds we all love.
SKU #S1824
Caution: Poisonous. The purchaser assumes all liability related to the use of this product.
$5.00
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
17
Shipped As
Pelleted seed
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
6,
7,
8,
9
Mature Size
1.5-2' h x 10" w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained
Season
Summer
Color
Brilliant red
Features
Deer Resistant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Hummingbirds
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow and press in lightly; requires light to germinate.
Sprout Time:
7-21 days
Starting Indoors:
Recommended. Start indoors in late winter. Cover with humidity dome or a light sprinkling of vermiculite to retain moisture until germination occurs. Do not allow soil mix to be saturated with water, a light even moisture is best. Keep at 70F. After transplant grow on cool, 50-55F.
Starting Outdoors:
Not recommended, as seeds and new seedlings are very tiny and delicate.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
At last frost date.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Lobelia is a hummingbird magnet and will also attract butterflies. It grows best where soils are consistently moist, including water gardens and edges of streams and ponds, and in borders with rich, moisture-holding soil. Add about an inch of mulch or compost to help conserve moisture, keeping away from the plant's crown. Wait until spring to cut back. A short-lived perennial that can be renewed by seed or by dividing every 2-3 years in spring in zones 6 and in autumn in zones 7-9. Caution: toxic if ingested in significant amounts.
Final Spacing:
1'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
At least 1" per week. Keep evenly moist, but not soggy, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic
Fertilizer:
Mix in 1-2" inches of compost prior to planting and top-dress with a thin layer each spring.
Diseases & Pests:
Lobelia can be susceptible to leaf spot and crown rot, but this can be avoided by placing in a location with plenty of air flow, watering mornings only and avoiding overly saturated soils. Slugs can occasionally be a problem, but can be treated by applying pelletized iron phosphate. Diatomaceous earth can also be used.
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