Lobelia erinus ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’: A Star Performer in the Garden

Lobelia ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’, or Lobelia erinus ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’, commonly known as Trailing Lobelia ‘Weslosu’, is a standout variety from the Star Series, renowned for its vibrant blue flowers with delicate white throats. This compact, trailing annual is a favorite among gardeners for its profuse blooming, easy maintenance, and versatility in various garden settings, including hanging baskets, containers, and borders.

Background and Classification

Scientific Name: Lobelia erinus ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’
Common Name: Super Star™ Lobelia
Family: Campanulaceae
Genus: Lobelia
Series: Star Series
Brand: Westhoff
Native Range: Southern Africa

Lobelia erinus, often referred to as edging Lobelia, is a tender perennial that is typically grown as an annual in cooler climates. It is part of the Campanulaceae family, which includes a wide variety of herbaceous plants known for their bell-shaped flowers. The Star Series by Westhoff, is popular for its robust growth habits and vibrant flower colors, making it a popular choice for both amateur and professional gardeners.

Description

Lobelia ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’ is a low-growing, mounding plant that reaches a height of 8 inches (20 cm) and spreads up to 12 inches (30 cm). The plant produces a cascade of small, royal blue flowers with white throats, creating a stunning contrast against its glossy green foliage. The flowers are tubular, two-lipped, and about 0.5 inches (1 cm) long, with a large, fan-shaped lower lip that is characteristic of Lobelia species.

This variety has a long blooming season, which extends from mid-spring to mid-fall. The plant thrives in cool weather but may struggle during the peak of summer heat. However, with proper care, it can continue to bloom until the first frosts.

Planting and Care Instructions for Lobelia ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’:

Sunlight: Lobelia ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’ performs best in partial shade, particularly in regions with hot summers. It can also tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates.
Soil: The plant prefers organically rich, evenly moist, well-drained soils. It can grow in various soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soils, with a pH range from acidic to neutral.
Watering: Regular watering is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant does not tolerate standing water, so good drainage is crucial.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. In mid-summer, switch to a nitrogen-free fertilizer to encourage continued blooming.
Temperature: Lobelia ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’ is winter hardy in USDA Zones 10-11. In cooler zones, it is grown as an annual. The plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C).
Pruning: Pruning is generally not required for this variety. However, if the foliage and flowers decline significantly during the summer, cutting back the plant can encourage a fresh flush of growth and blooms in the fall.
Pests and Diseases: This lobelia is generally pest and disease-free but may be susceptible to slugs. Regular monitoring and appropriate measures, such as using slug traps or barriers, can help keep these pests at bay.

Propagation

Lobelia ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’ can be propagated by seed or cuttings:

Seed Propagation: Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Seeds require light for germination, so do not cover them with soil. Maintain a temperature of 55-65°F (13-18°C) during germination. Seed propagation can be challenging, so many gardeners prefer to purchase plants from nurseries.
Cuttings: Propagation by cuttings is also possible, although it may be subject to restrictions depending on the cultivar’s patent status. Take softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer, and root them in a well-drained potting mix.

Landscape and Garden Uses

Lobelia ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’ is a versatile plant that can be used in various garden settings:

Hanging Baskets and Containers: Its trailing habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets and containers, where the flowers can cascade gracefully over the edges.
Garden Borders and Edging: The compact size and vibrant color make it an excellent choice for edging borders and flower beds.
Rock Gardens and Butterfly Gardens: Its bright flowers attract butterflies, making it a lovely addition to butterfly gardens. It also works well in rock gardens, where it can add a splash of color.

Summary

Lobelia erinus ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’ is a stellar choice for gardeners looking to add vibrant color and delicate texture to their outdoor spaces. Its ease of care, long blooming season, and versatility make it a favorite in both containers and garden beds. Whether you’re planting it in a hanging basket or using it as a border plant, ‘Super Star™ Weslosu’ is sure to shine in any garden.