Cait's Garden

Lobelia is a new plant for me. I just added it to my garden this summer and so far, I am thrilled. This particular variety is called “Monet Moment” and gives these gorgeous, upstanding, hot pink flower heads in August and September. I am not sure yet if the flowers will last that long as I purchased this plant in late July and it was already blooming.  But no doubt it is standing up to the heat and humidity and attracting some hummingbird interest. Lobelia has been a known herb for hundreds of years. Native Americans reportedly used it to treat respiratory conditions. However, varieties like the one I have are bred for beauty in the garden, not medicinal uses (although I understand it is poisonous if ingested). This plant grows about 20 inches high and likes moist soil, although average soil is fine, too. If this performs well again next year, you can bet I am going to add more of these plants to my yard for some much needed pink color in late summer.