Description
Lobelia laurentioides (also called 'Laurent's Lobelia', among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the family Campanulaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States, and is found in moist forests, woodlands, and savannas. It is an evergreen shrub, growing up to 1 m tall, with opposite, lanceolate leaves and small, blue-purple flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Lobelia laurentioides is used in traditional medicine to treat fever, headaches, and as an antispasmodic. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Lobelia laurentioides has a bright blue flower with a white throat. Its seeds are small, black and oval-shaped. The seedlings have a single, oval-shaped cotyledon and a pair of opposite, oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Lobelia laurentioides is a perennial plant that grows best in full sun to part shade. It is best propagated by division in the spring or by seed. It can be grown from seed sown in the fall or spring. The seed should be sown in a well-drained soil and kept moist until germination. Once established, it is drought tolerant and requires little maintenance.