Crystal Palace Lobelia

Lobelia erinus ‘Crystal Palace’ is a compact bedding lobelia with deep blue flowers and dark bronze-green foliage. The Royal Horticultural Society describes it as a small annual suited to edging, containers and flower beds. ## Appearance and placement This historic named selection forms a low, bushy mound and bears small flowers through summer and autumn. The RHS lists a height up to 10 cm and a broad spread range of 0.1–0.5 m; individual plants may stay much narrower in containers or edging. Its dark foliage contrasts well with silver leaves, pale stone and brighter annuals. ## Growing conditions Grow in full sun or partial shade in fertile, reliably moist but well-drained soil. Lobelia erinus prefers cool spring weather; in hot or humid summers, afternoon shade and regular watering help it keep flowering. Do not let the root zone dry completely, and avoid persistently waterlogged soil. ## Maintenance Apply a balanced fertilizer during spring and early summer, then use a nitrogen-free feed later in the season if following the RHS schedule. Cut plants back after flowering or when summer heat causes them to thin. [RHS Crystal Palace profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/106164/lobelia-erinus-crystal-palace/details) · [NC State Extension Lobelia erinus](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lobelia-erinus/)