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cardinal flower

cardinal flower

Lobelia cardinalis

perennialβ›… part shadeπŸ’§πŸ’§πŸ’§ high waterZone 3b – Zone 9b

Cardinal flower is a striking native perennial with tall spikes of brilliant red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers partial shade, making it ideal for bog gardens and stream banks.

Overview

Form
Upright
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
2–5.9β€² tall Γ— 1–1.5β€² wide
Dormancy
deciduous

Tolerances & Soil

moderate

Flood Tolerance

low
Zone 3bZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 3b to Zone 9b

pH Range

5.87.8
7.0
3.556.589
pH range: 5.8 to 7.8

Soil Texture

Medium

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SummerFall

Succession Role

early successionalmid successional

Native to the United States

Native Range

Eastern North America

Native to: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi

Function & Care

pollinator nectarywildlife benefit

Establishment & Care

Establishment
moderate
Maintenance
moderate
Propagation
seed, division