Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower): Plant Description & Features
Product Description
Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower) is a vivid, moisture-loving native perennial prized for its scarlet flower spikes that blaze from midsummer into early fall. Upright stems rise from fresh green rosettes, drawing hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinators in droves. Ideal for rain gardens, streambanks, pond margins, and moist borders, Cardinal Flower thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and bright light, delivering saturated color and habitat value when few other perennials can match its intensity.
Quick-Glance Specs
| Attribute | Details |
| Botanical Name | Lobelia cardinalis |
| Common Name | Cardinal Flower |
| Plant Type | Native perennial wildflower |
| Native/Non-native | Native to North America |
| Hardiness Zone | 3–9 |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to part shade (best bloom with ample light and moisture) |
| Moisture | Moist to wet; never allow prolonged drought |
| Mature Height | 24–48″ (2–4 ft) |
| Mature Spread | 12–18″ clump |
| Growth Habit | Upright spikes from basal rosettes; short-lived perennial that self-sows |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Fragrance | None |
| Bloom Time | Midsummer to early fall |
| Flower Color | Intense scarlet red (white/rose forms exist) |
| Seasonal Interest | Peak late-summer color; seed heads for winter texture |
| Foliage & Features | Lanceolate green leaves; strong vertical accent |
| Landscape Features | Heavy hummingbird & pollinator draw; rain-garden performer |
| Landscape Uses | Rain gardens, moist borders, stream/pond edges, naturalized meadows |
| Soil | Rich, organic loam or clay-loam; consistent moisture; good drainage |
| Water Needs | Medium–high (keep evenly moist) |
| Maintenance | Low–medium; deadhead for extended bloom; keep watered |
| Deer/Pest Resistance | Generally deer resistant; may see slug/snail nibble on young growth |
| Container Friendly | Yes—in large, moisture-retentive containers near water |
| Recommended Spacing | 12–18″ on center |
Care & Growing Information
- Site & Light: Plant in full sun to part shade; more sun is fine where soil stays consistently moist. In hotter regions, afternoon shade helps preserve bloom and foliage.
- Soil & Water: Prefers rich, organic, moisture-holding soils (loam or clay-loam). Avoid drought—the plant declines quickly if allowed to dry out.
- Planting: Space 12–18″ for airflow. Mulch to conserve moisture, keeping mulch off the crowns.
- Maintenance: Deadhead to prolong bloom or allow some seed to mature for natural reseeding (helps longevity). Cut spent stems back in late fall or late winter/early spring.
- Notes: All parts contain alkaloids; toxic if ingested. Wear gloves if sensitive to sap.
Key Features
- Towering spikes of electric scarlet in late summer
- Hummingbird magnet and strong pollinator value
- Thrives in rain gardens and along water edges
- Bold vertical accent for moist borders and naturalized plantings
- Easy to sustain by self-sowing where soil stays moist
Problems
- Drought stress is the main issue—maintain even moisture. Occasional slugs/snails may chew foliage; protect young plants. In heavy, stagnant conditions, crown rot can occur—ensure drainage even in wet soils.
Uses in the Landscape
- Rain gardens (middle to lower zones) and bioswales
- Pond/stream margins with consistent moisture
- Moist borders for late-summer color with coneflowers, Joe-Pye weed, and grasses
- Naturalized meadows and pollinator habitats
Availability / Ordering
- Sizes Offered: #1 Gallon, 4″, DP-50 Plug
- Recommended Spacing: 12–18″ for brilliant drifts and strong vertical rhythm.
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers unrivaled scarlet color right when gardens need a boost
- Water-wise for wet sites—performs where many perennials struggle
- Simple care: keep moist, deadhead to extend bloom, and let a few seedlings renew the stand
Quick Highlights
A moisture-loving native with scarlet flower spikes—Lobelia cardinalis powers rain gardens and water-edge plantings with hummingbird action and vivid late-summer color.
