Lobelia cardinalis

Product Info

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Bellflower Family

Brilliant, velvety red blooms draw hummingbirds and other nectar lovers over several weeks. Flowering starts at the bottom of the stalk and works its way upward over 3-4 weeks. Leaves often take on purple tones, especially new growth and in cooler months. Over winter, plants reduce down to basal rosettes that are flush to the ground--be sure not to cover with mulch or it can cause rot. In our hot climate, Cardinal Flower will grow best with morning to midday sun and afternoon shade. Only plant in full sun if it has constant moisture. Cardinal flower is a short lived perennial (2-4 years), but letting it go to seed will ensure plants for the future. Try sprinkling some seeds in a sandy or gravelly area if you have it.

Blooms: Red, 3-4 weeks, July-Oct
Leaves: Dark green, crimson, 2-7”, lanceolate, simple, serrated, evergreen basal rosette
Height: 2-5’
Space: 1-2’
Soil: Average-Moist
Exposure: Full sun-Part sun-Part shade
Fauna: Hummingbirds, long-tongue bees, swallowtail butterflies
Seeds: Brown seed capsules contain numerous tiny brown seeds
Deer Resistance: Medium
Zone: 3-9
Native Status: NC native, common across the state
Provenance: North Carolina and West Virginia ecotype, seed grown