Cardinalflower (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinalflower

(Lobelia cardinalis)

curiously_unique

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Estimated Native Range

Summary

Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as Cardinalflower, is a perennial herb native to wetlands, streambanks, and swamps across much of the United States, extending into Mexico and Central America. It is often found in riparian zones, a key habitat for this moisture-loving species. Cardinalflower typically grows up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall, with a striking appearance due to its vibrant red flowers that bloom from summer to early fall, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. White (f. alba) and pink (f. rosea) flower forms also exist, adding to its horticultural appeal. The plant’s foliage is usually a deep green, which contrasts beautifully with the bright flowers.

Cardinalflower is valued for its showy flowers and ability to attract pollinators. It is commonly used in rain gardens, naturalized areas, and as a border plant in gardens that can provide the moist conditions it thrives in. While it prefers moist soils, it is adaptable to various soil types as long as they are kept consistently wet. It can tolerate full sun to part shade, but in hotter climates, it benefits from some afternoon shade. Cardinalflower is easily propagated by seed or by dividing the young plants that form around the mature ones each year. Although perennial, individual plants may be short-lived, but they readily self-seed under optimal conditions. Gardeners should be aware that while generally disease-free, it can suffer from root rot if drainage is poor.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Herb
Height: 4-5 feet
Width: 1-2 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Red
Flowering Season: Summer
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Wetlands, streambanks, and swamps across much of the United States, extending into Mexico and Central America

Other Names

Common Names: Cardinal Flower , Scarlet Lobelia , Cardinal-Flower , Kardinals-Lobelie , Lobélie Cardinale , Lobélie Du Cardinal , Lobélie Écarlate , Kardinallobelia

Scientific Names: Lobelia cardinalis , Lobelia fulgens , Lobelia longifolia , Lobelia cardinalis subsp. graminea , Lobelia cardinalis subsp. cardinalis , Lobelia cardinalis var. graminea , Lobelia cordigera , Lobelia splendens , Lobelia cardinalis var. pseudosplendens , Lobelia cardinalis var. cardinalis

GBIF Accepted Name: Lobelia cardinalis L.