Lobelia × speciosa Starship Blue - Real Outdoor Plants - Hardy Perennial - Deep Purple Flowers - Perfect for Borders, Beds & Containers - Garden Ready Plants for UK Gardens (9 cm Pot, 10-20 cm)

• Characteristics: A compact, upright, clump-forming perennial with narrow, fresh green foliage. It produces tall stems adorned with deep purple-blue, two-lipped tubular flowers.
• Growth and Spread: Typically reaches a height of 60 cm and a spread of 45 cm.
• Period of Interest: July to September.
• Water and Maintenance: Prefers deep, fertile, reliably moist soil in full sun or partial shade. Protect with a dry winter mulch; can be short-lived. May be susceptible to slugs.

Lobelia × speciosa 'Starship Blue', commonly known as Cardinal Flower, is a striking perennial that brings vibrant color to gardens from mid to late summer. Its tall spikes of deep purple-blue flowers rise above clumps of fresh green foliage, creating a bold statement in borders and beds. This compact, upright plant is well-suited for adding vertical interest and rich hues to garden designs. Thriving in deep, fertile, and consistently moist soils, 'Starship Blue' performs best in full sun to partial shade. It's an excellent choice for areas with damp conditions, such as near water features or in bog gardens. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, to maintain its lush appearance and promote prolific blooming. Applying a dry winter mulch can help protect the plant and extend its lifespan, as it can be short-lived under certain conditions. Ideal for cottage and informal gardens, 'Starship Blue' not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also attracts pollinators, supporting local biodiversity. Its vibrant flowers make it a favorite among hummingbirds and butterflies. Gardeners should be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and may cause skin irritation; wearing gloves when handling is advisable. Additionally, monitoring for slugs will help ensure the plant remains healthy and vigorous. Please Note: Images are for illustrative purposes only and designed to be a representation of the item(s) being sold. Depending on seasonality, deciduous plants may be supplied in their dormant state and without leaves. Plants may also be pruned back, lower than stated heights, to encourage new growth.