Also known as Cardinal Flower · Cardinal Lobelia · Red Cardinal Flower
Cardinalflower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a striking perennial wildflower famed for its brilliant scarlet-red flower spikes that attract hummingbirds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter climates.
High
75% intensity
Requires consistently moist soil, but avoid waterlogging.
Loam, Clay, Sandy loam, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures; can tolerate heat if kept well-watered.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer or compost.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Cardinalflower thrives in consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Regular watering is crucial, especially during hot and dry periods, to maintain its vibrant blooms and overall health.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if not desired. In late autumn or early spring, cut back the dead stems to about 10-15 cm above the ground.
This tidies the plant and promotes vigorous new growth for the coming season.
Cardinalflower can be propagated by seeds, which require stratification (a period of cold, moist conditions) before sowing. Stem cuttings can also be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in moist potting mix.
Division of established clumps in early spring is another effective method.
Container-grown Cardinalflower may need repotting every 1-2 years, typically in early spring before new growth begins. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture, as this species prefers consistently damp conditions.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cardinalflower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Where Cardinalflower (Lobelia cardinalis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Lobelia |
| Species | Lobelia cardinalis |
Similar in genus Lobelia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
