Lobelia laxiflora subvar. angustifolia is an exotic-looking rhizomatous member of the Campanulaceae, or bellflower family. Preferring full sun in a sheltered location in well-drained soil this plant produces tubular red, yellow and orange flowers singly in the axils of the slender leaves. A native of Mexico, it is pollinated by butterflies and hummingbirds who can readily access the nectar at the base of the flowers. The genus takes its name from the French botanist Matthias de l’Obel (1536-1616). The specific name laxiflora is derived from the Latin laxo (loose) and flos (flower), while angustifolia means narrow leaved.