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.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
