Upright stems brilliant red flowers in late summer. A favorite source of nectar for hummingbirds. Grows well in poorly drained clay soil.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Stream Edge, Wetland
Season of Interest: Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Red
Fall Color:
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Moderate, High
Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Hummingbird
Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Nectar, Food/Birds
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant
Size
Height:
24 to
48
inches
Spread:
12 to
18
inches
Size
Height: 24 to
48
inches
Spread: 12 to
18
inches
Size
Height: 24 to
48
inches
Spread: 12 to
18
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Provides late summer bloom in the perennial border, wild garden, native plant garden or woodland garden. Excellent for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Very happy near ponds or streams.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grows well in standing water or average garden soil. Tolerates full sun to part shade. Short-lived perennial.
Special Features
Special Usage
Fresh Cut Flower, Rainscaping
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.