Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Regular, moist soil
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as cardinal flower, is a perennial plant with striking red flowers that attract hummingbirds and beneficial insects. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can often be found in wetlands or near water sources.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Plant in full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
- Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil and avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely between watering
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent leggy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch |
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
Cardinal Flower questions
What zones can Cardinal Flower grow in?
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 Cardinal Flower deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Cardinal Flower, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Cardinal Flower bloom?
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 Cardinal Flower need full sun?
Cardinal Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Lobelia to compare
Fan Cinnabar Rose Lobelia
Lobelia x speciosa 'Fan Cinnabar Rose'
Hybrid Cardinal Flower
Lobelia x speciosa 'Compliment Violet'
Lilac Candles Great Blue Lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica 'Lilac Candles'
Cardinal Flower Deep Rose
Lobelia cardinalis 'Deep Rose'
Cardinal Flower 'Black Truffle'
Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'
Laguna Dark Blue Lobelia
Lobelia erinus 'Laguna Dark Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow 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.
