LOBELIA 'Queen Victoria'

Lobelia cardinalis 'Queen Victoria' is a plant that has stuck with me for years. Mainly because it was the first plant recommendation from the man who ignited my passion for all things horticultural - Hilary Newman, a superb lecturer from Hadlow college, unfortunately now retired.

However, it is a cultivar that always gives me doubts. The dark bronze foliage isn't of a sold colour, the leaves looks as though it's too much of an effort to fill out properly. Don't give it enough water and the whole thing will bend over - and even now, I can hear it whining about supposed neglect even though I thoroughly watered it this morning, and have just this past hour given it a substantial top up!

It is a petulant child, ready to pull out a giant strop at a moments notice, and every year I constantly question myself as to validity of having this plant in the garden. At least I do right up until the time it flowers.

As far as flowers go, there are not many species that produces a pigment so bright and crisp that it can actually hurt your eyes to look at them! The cardinal-red blooms (hence the name) are outstanding and almost luminescent, and the rather dull foliage - once despised - now comes into play as the perfect foil. You can expect to see the stunning, five-lobed flowers  in July and August.

After all the pampering and heart ache, Lobelia cardinalis 'Queen Victoria' will absolutely perform for you. Furthermore, it is truly is a worthy recipient of  both the name 'Queen Victoria' and its 'Award of Garden Merit' from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Along with Hilary Newman, I give this plant my hearty recommendation.

How to grow Lobelia cardinalis

Native to northern United States, Lobelia cardinalis is an erect, clump-forming herbaceous perennial that can reach an overall height of up to 30 inches. It prefers a deep, fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. So copious are it water requirements that it is often grown as a marginal pond plant, though it tends not to thrive in such waterlogged conditions.

Lobelia cardinalis tends to weaken after a couple of years growth, but it can be revitalised through propagated by division. This method is best performed in March. Be aware though that Lobelia cardinalis is a particular favourite of slugs and snails so make a point of putting adequate protection in place - organic protection of course.

Once the plant has died back in late autumn, cover with a heavy mulch to help protect it against the winter cold.

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Images care of http://www.tulippictures.eu/Sitemap/ and http://www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk/item/Herbaceous-Perennials/Queen-Victoria/1EK and http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2100/5730666052_e64644e40f_b.jpg