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Gerald L. Klingaman
Lobeliaceae
Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal Flower
Cardinal flower is a short-lived herbaceous perennial native to much of eastern North America. Its glossy dark green, slightly toothed leaves and stems have a purplish tint. In summer, vivid red flowers open successively from the bottom to the top of tall spikes, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant dies back in fall to a semi-evergreen basal rosette.
Cardinal flower grows it best in partial shade and moist to wet, fertile soil with lots of organic matter, making it ideal for use near ponds. It is also suitable for the mixed border and wildflower garden. It often self-sows.
9 - 1
3 - 9
1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17
Perennial
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
24"-36" / 61.0cm - 91.4cm
10"-15" / 25.4cm - 38.1cm
Early Summer, Summer
North America, Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, North-Central United States, South-Central United States, Canada
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Poorly Drained
Loam
Wet Site
Medium
Ample Water
Clump-Forming
Summer
Showy
Red, Crimson, Dark Red
Brown
Dark Green
Purple, Dark Green, Burgundy
Purple, Dark Green
No
Single
Glossy
Semi-Evergreen
Bog Garden, Mixed Border, Water Gardens, Wildflower
Hummingbirds, Butterflies
Yes
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