Lobelia cardinalis

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.

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.