
Perennials
Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal Flower
One of our best-known native wildflowers, Lobelia cardinalis, or Cardinal Flower, adapts well to garden conditions, especially in moist areas beside ponds or water features. It forms an upright mound of glossy dark green leaves, bearing taller spikes of scarlet-red flowers in mid to late summer which bloom successively from the bottom to the top. Attractive to both hummingbirds and butterflies, but not cardinals. One of the few brilliant red perennials and a nice burst of color late in the season.
Additional:
Lobelia cardinalis is a Missouri native on the MSD Stormwater BMP Native plant list and used in Bioretention & Organic Filters-Formal, Wet Pond and Wetland applications.
Host plant for 4 species of butterflies/moths!
On Grow Native!'s Top 10 Natives to Attract Hummingbirds list!
Cardinal Flower Growing and Maintenance Tips:
Easily grown in rich, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Needs constant moisture. Will tolerate full sun in cool, northern climates, but otherwise appreciates part shade. Divide clumps in spring as needed. May self-seed in optimum growing conditions. Cut back in early spring.
Height:24-48 Feet |
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Spread:12-24 Inches |
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Hardiness Zone:3 - 9 |
Characteristics & Attributes for Lobelia cardinalis

Exposure
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Soil Moisture Preference
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Attracts Wildlife
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Season of Interest (Flowering)
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Great Companion Plants for Lobelia cardinalis






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