Lobelia cardinalis

Lobelia cardinalis

Cardinal Flower

Photo Credit: Susan Martin


Lobelia cardinalis

Cardinal Flower

Eye-catching in bloom, this native species produces cardinal red, two-lipped flowers which are strongly attractive to hummingbirds. It thrives in rich, moist to wet soil and is useful for rain gardens, watersides and naturalizing. Though somewhat short-lived, this vigorous species persists by reseeding.

Plant Details

  • Zone: 3 - 1
  • Height: 2-4'
  • Spread: 1-2'
  • Exposure: Full Shade, Part Shade
  • Soil Moisture: Bog, High Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: No
  • Bloom time: Early Fall, Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Green Shades
  • Flower Color: Red Shades
  • Fragrant: No
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Native Species
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Attracts butterflies: Yes
  • Attracts hummingbirds: Yes
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: No

Plant Details

  • Zone: 3 - 1
  • Height: 2-4'
  • Spread: 1-2'
  • Exposure: Full Shade, Part Shade
  • Soil Moisture: Bog, High Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: No
  • Bloom time: Early Fall, Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Green Shades
  • Flower Color: Red Shades
  • Fragrant: No
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Native Species
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Attracts butterflies: Yes
  • Attracts hummingbirds: Yes
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: No

Grower Information

  • PowerPlug Size(s): 32s
  • Optimal Planting Time: Spring
  • Retail Sales Window: Spring
  • Moisture in Production: Consistent
  • Requires Shade in Production: Yes
  • Vernalization Required for Bloom: No
  • Vernalization Beneficial: Yes