Lobelia Queen Victoria

2-3 Litre Pot

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full sun / partial shade
• Soil: Moist
• Growth rate: Average
• Flowering period: June – August
• Hardiness: H3
• Eventual height: 0.5 – 1m
• Eventual spread: 0.1 – 0.5m

Lobelia Queen Victoria, also known as ‘Cardinal Flower’ and holder of the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit, is a striking, native wildflower that is prized for its showy, red spikes of blooms. This plant is native to North America and is found in a variety of habitats, including stream banks and meadows.  The plant gets its name ‘Cardinal Flower’ from the brilliant red colour of its flowers, which resemble the bright red robes worn by Catholic cardinals.

This is a perennial plant that grows to a height of 1 metre and a spread of 1/2 metre. Its leaves are long and lance-shaped, and bright red flowers bloom in spikes from mid Summer to early Autumn. The plant’s blooms are a favourite of nectar-seeking pollinators, making it a great choice for those looking to attract wildlife to their gardens.

How to are for your Lobelia Queen Victoria

• Location: Prefers to be grown in full sun to partial shade. It is important to choose a location with well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. This plant does best in cooler temperatures, and may suffer in hot, dry conditions.
• Watering: This plant prefers consistently moist soil, so it is important to water it deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
• Fertiliser: Benefits from a light application of fertiliser in the Spring. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser and follow the instructions on the label.
• Pruning: May benefit from being cut back by one-third to one-half in the late Summer to promote bushier growth. Pruning can also help to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
• Winter Care: Is hardy down to temperatures of -3˚C, so in colder climates, it may not survive the Winter. To overwinter the plant, you can either grow it as an annual or bring it indoors for the Winter. If you choose to bring it indoors, make sure to place it in a location with bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist.

Lobelia Queen Victoria is an excellent choice for those looking to add some bold, red colour to their garden. Its showy spikes of blooms, combined with its attractive form and ability to attract wildlife, make it a standout addition to any landscape. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this is an easy-to-grow plant that will provide many years of beauty and enjoyment.