North American annual with small pale-blue flowers and inflated seed capsules. Historical respiratory and emetic use — known by the unflattering name "puke weed".
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 2–9 | −45.6 °C to −1.1 °C | Zones where it can be grown as an annual — not a frost-tolerance rating |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 2–9 | −40 °C and warmer | Zones where it can be grown as an annual — not a frost-tolerance rating |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 1–5 | −15 °C to 10 °C | Zones where it can be grown as an annual — not a frost-tolerance rating |
As a tender annual, Lobelia (Indian tobacco) doesn't overwinter — the zone range shows where the growing season supports it. See the RHS rating for its actual cold tolerance.
Growing notes
- Toxic above low doses — nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression, and (rarely) death have been recorded
- Listed as historical reference. Modern herbalists use only highly diluted preparations under expert supervision.
- Always consult a qualified medical or herbal practitioner before using any plant medicinally
Pet caution: Lobelia (Indian tobacco) is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check Lobelia (Indian tobacco) against your zones