Species
Lobelia cardinalisCardinal Flower6 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as Cardinal Flower, is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its upright growth, vibrant scarlet-red tubular flowers, and lance-shaped green foliage that forms dense clumps.
The 'Shrimp Salad' cultivar is notable for its unique, vibrant coral-pink flowers and compact growth habit, making it an attractive choice for borders and container gardening.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Requires consistent moisture
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds just below soil surface in early spring.
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination, about 2 weeks.
- Transplant seedlings to garden after danger of frost passes.
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushiness.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Avoid dry, drought conditions ❌
- Don’t let soil stay waterlogged ❌
- Avoid excessive fertilization
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower questions
What zones can Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower grow in?
Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower bloom?
Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower need full sun?
Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Lobelia to compare
Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis
Hybrid Cardinal Flower
Lobelia speciosa 'Compliment Violet'
Lilac Candles Great Blue Lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica 'Lilac Candles'
Cardinal Flower 'Black Truffle'
Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'
Fan Cinnabar Rose Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa 'Fan Cinnabar Rose'
Perrys White Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis 'Perrys White'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Shrimp Salad Cardinal Flower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.