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Lobelia pratioides

Poison Lobelia

Perennial herb with prostrate to rising, sometimes zigzagged stems, rooting at nodes to form loose mats. Young growth hairy.

Additional information

  • FamilyCampanulaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Sizeprostrate - 30 cm x 0.5-1.5 m
  • Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
  • LeavesDull green to reddish wedge-shaped leaves 5-35 mm x 1.2-6 mm, arranged in 2 opposite rows, long taper to base, margins toothed.
  • Flower colourBlue with white markings
  • Flowering timeSeptember to May
  • FlowersMale and female flowers on separate plants. Single tiny flowers in leaf axils held above leaves on long hairy stems. Flowers tubular, slightly 2-lipped with spreading lobes, tube split almost to base.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsSeasonally inundated to waterlogged soils along swamp margins and drainage lines. Frost tolerant. Semi shade.
  • Garden useExcellent ground cover for bog gardens and moist spots. May be useful in ferneries which are not too dark. Poisonous to stock.
  • Commercially availableWholesale only - order in advance
  • Conservation statusScattered locations within the Shire. More common in western Victoria.
Photographer/s: Peter Kinchington ©

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