Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower)

A confirmed obligate wetland species, cardinal flower's intensely scarlet blooms are among the most important native nectar sources for ruby-throated hummingbirds - and the plant's own lobeline compound helps deter the herbivore browsing that troubles less chemically-defended wetland perennials.

Species Overview

Lobelia cardinalis is a stunning perennial native to wetlands, streambanks, and woodlands across North America. It grows 2 to 4 feet tall, with striking scarlet red, tubular flowers blooming from midsummer to early fall on unbranched spikes that open from bottom to top. Individual plants are short-lived but readily self-seed given good seed-to-soil contact.

Application

• Wetland and riparian restoration - confirmed obligate wetland species
• Rain gardens and water garden margins
• Hummingbird and pollinator habitat plantings
• Woodland edge and streambank naturalizing

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist to wet soils; requires consistent moisture, does not tolerate the soil drying out
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Red; July-September
• Wetland Indicator Status: OBL (Obligate Wetland)
• Native Range: Eastern North America
• Hydrology: Wet
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Flood Tolerance: High - Tolerates brief to seasonal flooding and no drainage; soil should never be allowed to dry out. Rated FACW+ (leaning Obligate Wetland).
• Shade Tolerance: Tolerant
• Root Depth: Very Deep (36 in.+)
• Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
• Deer Resistance: Some - moderately resistant
• Pollinator Value: Supports butterflies, supports hummingbirds

Planting Guidance

• Parent plants persist only a few years but are prolific self-seeders - allow seed-to-soil contact for the colony to continually replenish itself.