Downy Lobelia
Lobelia puberula
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 18 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, nectar insects
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 411 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Downy Lobelia is a tall native perennial that produces spikes of blue to purple flowers from summer through late fall. This upright plant offers an extended bloom period and attracts a variety of pollinators while maintaining a relatively neat garden appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Downy Lobelia is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- May flop without support
- Best in less formal zones
Wildlife value
Excellent pollinator plant that attracts butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and other nectar-seeking insects. The long flowering season from June through November provides sustained food sources when many other plants have finished blooming.
Common questions
- How much sun does Downy Lobelia need?
- Downy Lobelia grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Downy Lobelia bloom?
- Downy Lobelia blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Downy Lobelia native?
- Downy Lobelia (Lobelia puberula) is native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 18 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Downy Lobelia attract?
- Downy Lobelia draws butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and nectar insects.
- Is Downy Lobelia HOA-friendly?
- Downy Lobelia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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 Downy Lobelia? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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