An annual, reaching a maximum size of 2.6 x 2 ( rarely over 1.5 ) feet in size, that is native to Central America. It should be avoided in warm humid climates outside its native range where it has invasive potential. In colder climates where it is not invasive, it makes an attractive summer bedding plant. Many of the newer cultivars are dwarf, reaching less than 1 foot in height.
The broadly-ovate leaves, up to 3 inches long, are hairy and bright green.
The bright blue ( white and pink forms exist but are rare ) flowers are borne on dense flattened clusters, up to 4 inches wide, all summer long.
Hardy zones 10 to 12, however used in zone 4 to 9 as summer bedding annuals. It requires full sun ( except in very hot climates where some afternoon shade is appreciated ) and moist, fertile, well drained soil. Excessive overhead watering may contribute to powdery mildew.
* photos taken on Aug 1 2013 in Stratford, Ontario
* photo taken on Aug 15 2014 @ Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD
* photo taken on Jul 17 2017 in Gatineau, Quebec
* photo taken on Aug 13 2017 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 14 2024 @ Coventry Gardens, Windsor, ON
'Tall Blue Planet'
Exceptionally vigorous, reaching up to 2 x 2.3 feet
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