Native to eastern areas, blue lobelia was named by Linnaeus, who had heard of its use by Native Americans to cure venereal disease. While false, the name stuck; however, it was used medicinally for colds and stomach troubles by Native people and colonists alike. The flowers cover the stout stems with bloom for over a month in late summer in moist soils. Lobelia attracts a wide array of beneficial insects and is one of the best choices for bumblebees.