Lobelia Crystal Palace, FLOWERS Seed

Lobelia erinus 'Crystal Palace' is a heirloom compact lobelia prized for its intensely rich, dark cobalt blue flowers — just ½ inch across — that blanket the plant continuously from spring through fall. Attractive bronze-tipped foliage (deepening in full sun) peeks through the mass of blooms. Excellent in containers, window boxes, borders, rock gardens, and hanging baskets. In mild winter areas it will bloom through winter and may reseed under ideal conditions.

Plant Highlights

• Intense cobalt blue flowers, ½ inch across, covering the plant from spring to fall
• Bronze-tipped foliage — most pronounced in full sun
• Outstanding in containers, window boxes, baskets, and border edges
• Blooms through winter in mild climates; reseeds under ideal conditions
• Heirloom variety with a long history in cottage and Victorian gardens

Growing Guide

Starting indoors (recommended): Sow 8–10 weeks before last frost. Fill small pots ¾ full with potting mix and mist to moisten. Sprinkle 3–6 seeds per pot on the surface — do not cover; seeds need light to germinate. Cover with plastic wrap and place under a grow light. Remove plastic when shoots reach 2–3 inches tall. Germination: 14–21 days.

Hardening off: Over 2 weeks, gradually increase outdoor sun and time before transplanting after all frost danger has passed. Crystal Palace excels in hanging pots.

Direct sowing: Sow 1–2 weeks after the average last frost. In mild winter areas, sow in late summer for winter color.

Site and soil: Full sun to partial shade; well-drained, consistently moist soil.

Planting Specs

• Type: Annual
• Germ temp: 72°F | Avg. germ time: 14–21 days
• Light required: Yes (surface sow; do not cover)
• Bloom season: Spring through fall (year-round in mild climates)
• Bloom color: Intense cobalt blue with bronze-tipped foliage
• Spacing: 6 inches