Lobelia (_Lobelia inflata_) is a native poisonous annual plant,
occurring generally in open woods and pastures, but is most abundant in
the States east of the Mississippi River. The leaves, tops, and seeds
are used medicinally.
This plant thrives under cultivation in a rather rich, moist loam, and
grows well either in the open or in partial shade. It grows readily
from seeds, which are very small and must be sown on soil which has
been well fined and exceptionally well prepared. The seeds are sown
either in the fall or spring in rows 2 feet apart. It is best not to
cover the seeds but to sow them on the surface of the soil, which is
then firmed with a float or by resting a board over the row and walking
upon it. Fall planting usually gives a better stand and a heavier crop.
Shallow cultivation should be given until the plants begin to flower.
Lobelia is harvested when in full flower or as soon as some of the
older seed pods are full grown. The plants may be cut with a mower if
the cutter bar is set high enough to avoid including the large stems.
The herb should be dried in the shade, in order to preserve the green
color.
Small areas have given yields at the rate of 1,000 pounds of dry herb
per acre. The prewar price paid to collectors for the dried herb was
about 3 cents a pound. The prices in June, 1920, were, for the herb, 20
cents; for the seed, 75 cents a pound.