Species cardinal flower
deep red flowers with green sepals and stems

cardinal flower

Lobelia cardinalis

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a species of perennial wildflower native to the eastern portions of the United States and parts of Canada. They grow in a variety of soils in moist environments such as meadows, along streams, and in seasonally wet areas. These plants can grow as tall as two feet and feature showy, scarlet-red flowers with a distinct five-lobed tubular shape. Leaves are pointed and oppositely arranged with short stalks. The blooming period typically occurs from July to late September. Cardinal flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, thus providing essential pollination services to an area.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

Scarlet red, white or rose Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun only if soil kept moist, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay Humus

Fruits:

brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Let the soil dry out slightly between watering. During periods of drought, extra water may be necessary. This species does not like overly wet soils, so water as needed only and check soil moisture regularly.

sunlight

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) grows best in full sun to partial shade. Generally, it requires 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, ideally in the morning or early afternoon (not in the hottest part of the day). This species also enjoys growing in moist, acidic soil with good drainage. If the soil is too dry, the trunks may need to be watered occasionally. Cardinal flower does not do well in hot, humid climates. It is better suited for cooler climates, such as those found in northern regions.

pruning

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) requires very little pruning. It can be done at any time that is convenient for you to do so. The plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring before it begins to grow new shoots. To prune, simply remove any dead or damaged branches, and any that are too long or too high. Make sure to leave some foliage around the base of the plant for protection during the cold winter months. If the plant is too tall, you can prune it by about a third of the height at this time. If it is growing too wide, you can cut back 1 or 2 of the longest branches. Pruning will help encourage more dense, bushy growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Cardinal flower typically begins flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Lobelia cardinalis typically begins in July and ends in September.

Starts Flowering

Cardinal flower typically begins flowering in late summer, usually in August or September.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Lobelia cardinalis typically begins in July and ends in September.

Hardiness Map