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Southern Lobelia

Lobelia amoena

Last reviewed: June 2026

Southern Lobelia (Lobelia amoena)
Photo: Louis Claude Richard (1754-1821) / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, FL, GA, NC and 3 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, hummingbirds

Southern lobelia is a compact native perennial that produces delicate blue to purple flowers from summer through fall. This low-growing wildflower forms neat clumps and works well as a groundcover or border plant in partially shaded areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Southern Lobelia is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.

  • May appear too informal for conservative front yards
  • Bloom period appearance more acceptable than off-season

Wildlife value

The tubular flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the long blooming season. This native plant provides important nectar sources during late summer when many other flowers have finished blooming.

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.

Does Southern Lobelia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.