Blue Lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica
Last reviewed: July 2026
Lobelia siphilitica is a native North American wildflower producing spikes of bright blue tubular flowers from July through September. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in partial sun and attracts bees and hummingbirds.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Blue lobelia produces tall spikes of brilliant blue flowers from summer through early fall, creating striking vertical accents in the garden. This native perennial thrives in consistently moist soil and partial sun conditions. The plant forms neat clumps with lance-shaped green leaves that complement the showy flower displays.
Growing Blue Lobelia
Grow Blue Lobelia in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Blue Lobelia is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Requires consistent moisture to maintain appearance
Wildlife value
The tubular blue flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and also support various native bees. This plant provides valuable late-season nectar when many other flowers have finished blooming.
Common questions
- When does Blue Lobelia bloom?
- Blue Lobelia blooms from July through September, producing tall spikes of brilliant blue tubular flowers.
- What pollinators visit Blue Lobelia?
- Blue Lobelia attracts both bees and hummingbirds with its tubular blue flowers and nectar.
- Where is Blue Lobelia native?
- Blue Lobelia is native across much of North America, from Maine to Georgia and west to Colorado and Wyoming, found in 42 states total.
- What growing conditions does Blue Lobelia prefer?
- Blue Lobelia thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and partial sun to partial shade conditions.
- Is Blue Lobelia HOA-friendly?
- Blue Lobelia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Blue Lobelia? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz