Cardinal Flower

Scientific Name: Lobelia cardinalis/Campanulaceae 

Native

Semi-evergreen to Herbaceous Perennial, Zone 4-8/Height varies with variety.

Lobelias are rewarding late summer, early fall, back of the border plants. Hummingbirds and Spicebush Swallowtail butterflies are guaranteed visitors to these flowers.

Partial shade. In moist areas, Cardinal Flowers can handle more sun. The soil needs to be well amended, moist, moderately fertile and well drained, especially in the winter. Make sure to provide an area with good air circulations. After the first flowers fade, you may cut the stalk back ½ to encourage new flowers to form. These are considered short-lived perennials. Divide on a regular basis to keep plants vigorous. Re-seeding may take place if the seeds can make contact with moist soil. A light mulch in winter is all that is needed, but don’t let the plants dry out in summer.