Lobelia excelsia

The name Lobelia excelsia corresponds to Lobelia excelsa, a shrub or small tree endemic to north-central and central Chile, growing from sea level to about 1200 m in semi-arid coastal and inland areas exposed to full sun. This woody lobelia, far removed from the familiar herbaceous garden lobelias, bears orange tubular flowers in clusters. It belongs to a group of South American tree-like lobelias that are unusual within a genus otherwise dominated by herbaceous species. In cultivation it requires a sunny position, well-drained soil, and winter protection in climates colder than its native Chile.