- Native to North America, lobelia siphilitica is found in the southern part of Canada and the eastern, midwestern and northern portions of the United States. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, it is considered vulnerable or possibly endangered in Maine, Massachusetts and New York. However, it is quite common in other states, such as Ohio.
- This perennial herb received its Latin species name spyhlilitica because it originally was used to treat syphilis. Its leafy, hairy stems contain a juice that has been used as a home remedy along with the leaves and stems themselves. Parts of the plant also have been used to treat, dropsy, diarrhea and dysentery. Warning: Consuming too much of lobelia siphilitica can be fatal. If you have this plant on your property, make sure your pets or animals do not graze on the plant. Always consult a physician before ingesting any parts of this plant.
- The lobelia siphilitica's flowers are bright blue and about 1 inch long. The petals form a tube with a lower lip and an upper lip. There are two lobes on the upper lip and three on the lower lip. These showy flowers bloom from July through October.
- In addition to producing beautiful flowers, lobelia siphilitica also has oval-shaped leaves that average between 2 and 6 inches in length. These leaves can appear smooth or have a slight tooth and grow in an alternate pattern. The fruit is a two-celled pod filled with seeds. The plant will reach 3 feet tall, with erect, ridged, leafy stems branching outward.
- Lobelia siphilitica will grow best in wet, rich humus in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9. It prefers constant moisture, as in a wet meadow, a marshy area or near a pond. It needs full sun to light shade. Mulch your plants in the winter.
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