Cardinal Flower

Botanical Name

Lobelia cardinalis

Hardiness

Zones 3 to 9

Height

3 to 4 feet

Width

2 feet

Flowers

Early to late summer: red, pink, white, salmon, cream

Light

Full sun to part shade

Soil

Moist, well-drained, rich

Planting & Care

Cardinal flower prefers part shade, but tolerates full sun where grown in cool summers
This plant needs consistent moisture, apply a layer of organic matter as a mulch to retain soil moisture
Self-sows readily, but because it is a somewhat short-lived perennial, this is an asset
In spring or fall divide basal rosettes that form around the base of the parent plant
Pinch back plants for sturdier stems and bushier growth
Cut plants back in spring

Problems