Lobelia excelsa

Common Names: Tupa, tabaco del diablo

Family: Campanulaceae

Origin: Chile

Type: Evergreen perennial

Size: 6 ft. high and 5 ft. wide.

Flowers: Orange-red blooms about 3 in., spring, summer, fall; narrow green-gray leaves to 8 in.

Uses: Color accent, light screen, background.

Wildlife: Bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.

Soil: Rich, well-drained soil.

Water: Low to medium water; more water will stimulate larger plant.

Sun: Full sun to some shade.

Pruning: Prune back hard to encourage new growth.

Pests & Diseases: Thrips or spider mites. Prevent diseases by watering properly.

Notes: Plant is poisonous; common name “tabaco del diablo” means “devil’s tobacco”. From woodlands and forests of moister southern parts of central Chile. Hardy to 15° F.