Lobelia Fan Scarlet 1.5 Litre Pot

Lobelia ‘Fan Scarlet’ – Bold Scarlet Spikes for a Dramatic Garden Accent

Lobelia ‘Fan Scarlet’ is a striking, upright perennial prized for its intense scarlet-red flower spikes and rich, burgundy-tinged foliage. Part of the Fan Series, this cultivar offers both dazzling colour and refined form, making it a standout in mixed borders, waterside plantings, and pollinator gardens. With a long flowering season and strong architectural presence, ‘Fan Scarlet’ brings bold drama and vibrant energy to the garden.

Seasonal Beauty & Growth

Spring:
Basal clumps of dark green to deep burgundy foliage emerge, forming a lush and upright rosette. Strong stems begin to develop in preparation for flowering.

Summer:
In mid to late summer, spikes of vivid scarlet-red flowers shoot upward, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. The flowers bloom densely along tall stems, creating a vertical accent that anchors planting schemes.

Autumn:
Blooms continue into early autumn, with the vibrant red flowers contrasting beautifully against the dark foliage. As temperatures cool, the leaves may deepen in colour.

Winter:
Foliage dies back in colder climates. Mulch around the base to protect the crown and promote overwintering.

Structure & Form

• Height: 60–90 cm

• Spread: 30–45 cm

• Habit: Upright and clumping with vertical flower spikes

• Foliage: Lance-shaped, often tinged with burgundy or purple

• Flowers: Bright scarlet-red, tubular, arranged on strong upright stems

• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

• Lifespan: Perennial; longer-lived with consistent moisture and good drainage

Perfect for Various Landscapes

• Mixed Borders: A brilliant vertical accent that complements softer textures and pastel tones.

• Wildlife Gardens: Its tubular blooms are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

• Waterside Plantings: Ideal for damp or moisture-retentive soils along ponds or streams.

• Containers: Can be grown in large containers for a bold splash of colour on patios or terraces.

• Rain Gardens: Performs well in well-drained but moisture-holding soils, especially in part shade.

Growing Conditions & Care

• Position: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Sun encourages stronger stems and richer flower colour.

• Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained soil is essential; tolerates clay and loam with added compost.

• Watering: Requires consistent moisture—do not allow to dry out completely.

• Hardiness: Hardy in most UK regions (RHS H4), but may benefit from mulching in exposed or cold areas.

• Maintenance: Deadhead to prolong blooming. Cut back spent stems in late autumn. Divide every few years in spring to rejuvenate.

Why Choose Lobelia ‘Fan Scarlet’?

• Vibrant Scarlet Flowers: Dazzling, intense red blooms that create an eye-catching focal point.

• Long Flowering Season: Blooms from midsummer into early autumn, providing sustained colour.

• Burgundy-Toned Foliage: Adds depth and contrast even when not in bloom.

• Pollinator Friendly: Loved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

• Architectural Impact: Strong vertical form enhances structure in borders and mixed beds.

Perfect Plant Combinations

• With Rudbeckia or Echinacea: Combine warm tones for a prairie-style planting with rich summer colour.

• With Salvia or Nepeta: Blue and purple blooms contrast beautifully with scarlet spikes.

• With Ferns or Hostas: In part shade, mix with foliage-rich companions for a dramatic contrast in form and colour.

• With Grasses: Pair with ornamental grasses like Miscanthus or Panicum for a naturalistic, flowing look.

Lobelia ‘Fan Scarlet’ is an exceptional perennial that brings intense colour, pollinator value, and strong structure to garden compositions. Whether you’re creating a wildlife-friendly border or a bold, contemporary display, its fiery red spikes and lush foliage make it a show-stopping and versatile choice for any garden setting.