Lobelia × gerardii 'Vedrariensis'
‘Vedrariensis’ is a vigorous hybrid lobelia with deep violet‑purple flower spikes. Plants typically reach 2 to 4 feet tall and flower from mid summer into early fall. It prefers full sun to part shade and evenly moist soil. It copes with normal garden moisture better than many cardinal‑type lobelias. It is hardy in much of the northern and mid‑Atlantic United States. It can be short‑lived but grows fast and can be renewed by division.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: × gerardii hybrid; herbaceous perennial
- Height × spread: 24-48 in (60-120 cm) × 12-36 in (30-90 cm)
- Bloom window: July to September
- Color & flower form: Deep violet‑purple tubular flowers on tall racemes
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 5-9
- Breeder / Year / Origin: Parc de la Tête d’Or, Lyon, France; year unknown
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Flower color shifts to violet‑purple instead of the blue of Great Blue Lobelia.
- Often taller with longer racemes in rich soil.
- Tolerates typical border soils better than the species.
- Blooms from mid to late summer, overlapping but not identical to the species’ timing.
Strengths
- Bold vertical spikes for summer borders.
- Handles average garden moisture if soils do not dry out.
- Reliable cold hardiness through zone 5.
Care in one minute
- Site and light: full sun to part shade.
- Soil and pH: fertile, evenly moist soil; tolerates clay if drainage is steady.
- Watering: irrigate during dry spells; avoid drought.
- Feeding: add compost in spring; avoid heavy nitrogen.
- Grooming: cut down spent spikes in fall; divide in spring to renew vigor.
- Overwintering: apply a light, dry mulch in colder zones to protect crowns.
Watch‑outs
- Short‑lived in poorly drained winter soils; use a dry winter mulch.
- Slugs may scar young foliage.
- Requires steady moisture for best display.
Best uses (tags)
borders, rain gardens, wildlife‑friendly, seasonal impact
Provenance note
A selection of Lobelia × gerardii, a hybrid between Lobelia cardinalis and Lobelia siphilitica developed in Lyon, France.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder – Lobelia × gerardii ‘Vedrariensis’
- Royal Horticultural Society – Lobelia × speciosa ‘Vedrariensis’
- NC State Extension – Lobelia (toxicity and culture)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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