Cardinal flower has reddish purple stems and lance-shaped, often glossy, bright green leaves tinged with bronze. Bold red spikes of tubular two-lipped flowers with reddish purple bracts appear in summer and early autumn.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsUseful near water or in a wildlife pool.
CareGrow in deep, fertile, moist soil or in containers of acidic soil near water.
PropagationDivide in summer. Take bud cuttings in midsummer.
ProblemsRust, smut, leaf spots, and slugs.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Nelson Multi-Pattern Stationary Sprinkler
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Dramm Revolution Adjustable 9-Pattern Metal Hose Nozzle
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Rain Bird PATIOKIT Drip Irrigation Patio Watering Kit
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Lobelia
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Moisture : Medium to Wet
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Flower Color : Red
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.