Lobelia erinus 'Richardii'
Am I evergreen?
Yes, the plant is evergreen and retains its leaves throughout the year. It is a popular choice for garden planting due to its persistent green appearance. The plant provides color and structure in the garden all year round.
How many degrees of winter hardiness am I?
The plant is hardy to about -5 degrees Celsius. It is advisable to protect the plant from frost in the winter months. The plant cannot withstand severe frost.
Am I easy to maintain?
Yes, this plant is easy to maintain and requires minimal care. It is important to keep the soil moist and fertilize regularly for optimal growth and flowering. Prune dead flowers regularly to extend the blooming period.
How much space do I need?
Lobelia erinus 'Richardii' needs about 10-15 centimeters of space between plants. It is a ground cover that spreads well, so keep this in mind when planting. Make sure to provide enough space for the plant to develop and grow.
Do I grow well in the shade?
The plant generally grows better in full sun, but can also thrive in partial shade. Make sure the plant still receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. In full shade, blooming may decrease and growth may slow down.
How many times a week do I need water?
The plant needs regular watering, especially during warm and dry periods. It is advisable to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Generally, the plant needs water about 1-2 times a week.
Am I a butterfly and a bee attractant?
Yes, this plant attracts butterflies and bees due to its bright flowers and the nectar they produce. It is a beautiful addition to a garden or border if you want to attract these insects.
Am I good for biodiversity?
Garden plants generally do not contribute to biodiversity, as they are often non-native and do not provide a significant contribution to the food chain for local wildlife. It is better to choose native plant species to support biodiversity.
In which months do I bloom and for how long?
This plant blooms from May to September and the flowering period can last up to 4 months. The flowers are blue in color and grow in clusters.
Can I tolerate full sun?
Yes, the plant can withstand full sun and will thrive best in a sunny spot in the garden. It is important to provide the plant with enough water in hot weather to prevent dehydration. Keep the soil moist but not too wet.
Am I edible?
No, Lobelia erinus 'Richardii' is not edible. It is a decorative garden plant that is toxic if ingested. Therefore, it is not recommended to consume this plant.
Am I sound deadening?
Yes, this plant has a limited sound-absorbing effect due to the leaves and stems that can somewhat absorb sound. However, the effect will be minimal compared to specific sound-absorbing plants like bamboo or holly. Generally, garden plants are not primarily chosen for their sound-absorbing properties.