The Story
Plant Bio
Lobelia cardinalis 'Multiflora' is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its upright growth, vibrant red tubular flowers, and lance-shaped green foliage, creating a striking display in gardens and naturalized areas.
This cultivar is notable for its abundant flowering throughout the season, with a profusion of smaller, densely packed flowers that enhance its ornamental appeal and attract hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds shallowly into moist soil in early spring.
- Keep soil consistently moist during active growth period.
- Mist cuttings with water to encourage rooting, 6 weeks.
- Plant in full sun to partial shade for best flowering.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained, moist soil with full sun for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage
- Keep away from overly shady spots
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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 fall. 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
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'
Cardinal Flower Deep Rose
Lobelia cardinalis 'Deep Rose'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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.