Description
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is one of those plants that immediately grabs your attention. Its bright red flower spikes stand out from a distance and bloom from mid to late summer, opening gradually from the bottom up so you get color for several weeks. The tubular blooms are packed with nectar and are a favorite for hummingbirds and swallowtail butterflies.
It grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, rich soils—perfect for rain gardens, low spots, or along ponds and streams. While each plant only lives a few years, it reseeds easily and tends to stick around by popping up in new spots. The bold red flowers also make great cut stems if you want to bring some color indoors.
It also produces a natural compound (lobeline) that helps deter herbivores. Like all lobelias, it’s mildly toxic if eaten, so it’s best to keep it away from curious pets.
