Lobelia cardinalis

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Cardinal Flower

 
California Native Plant
Plant photo of: Lobelia cardinalis
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme        Photographer: Sandra Chipley/Devine

 

Description

The Cardinal Flower occurs in wet meadows, marshes and along stream banks in the wild, so it should be grown in a place that is moist for the majority of the time. The foiliage is a deep, dark green which contrasts beautifully to the vivid red flowers that bloom on 2'-5' stalks in August and September. Hummingbirds are the main pollinators of this plant, and will be seen visiting the flowers. -Holland WIldflower Farm

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

Plant Type

Perennial

 

Height Range

1-3'

 

Flower Color

Red

 

Flower Season

Summer

 

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half, Shade

 

Water

Medium, High

 

Growth Rate

Fast

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Rich, Moist

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Meadow, Water Garden, Wild Garden

 

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers

 

Seasonal Interest

Summer

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Patio, Raised Planter, Swimming Pool, Walkways, With Rocks

 

Special Uses

Filler, Mass Planting, Small Spaces

 

Attracts Wildlife

Hummingbirds

Water Saving Tip:

Check your irrigation controller once a month, and adjust as necessary.

Most plants require only one-third as much water in winter as they do in summer.