Cardinal Flower

Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as cardinal flower, is a striking wildflower native to North America, particularly fond of wet habitats such as stream banks, marshes, and damp woodlands. It is renowned for its vibrant display of scarlet-red flowers. The cardinal flower stands tall, reaching heights of 2 to 4 feet, with lance-shaped leaves arranged along its erect stems. Its tubular blossoms, resembling the shape of a cardinal’s beak, bloom in dense spikes from midsummer to early fall, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies with their nectar-rich blooms. This perennial plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, though it can tolerate some sun in cooler climates. It is often used in rain gardens, bog gardens, and other water features, where its brilliant blooms add a pop of color to the landscape while providing habitat for pollinators.