Species
Lobelia erinusEdging Lobelia10 other cultivars
‘Laguna Dark Blue’Laguna Dark Blue Lobelia
‘Starship Scarlet Bronze Leaf’Starship Scarlet Lobelia
‘Monsoon’Monsoon Lobelia
‘Dark Blue’Dark Blue Trailing Lobelia
‘Scarlet Princess’Scarlet Princess Edging Lobelia
‘Fountain White’Fountain White Lobelia
‘Fountain Rose’Edging Lobelia, Trailing Lobelia
‘Fountain Blue’Fountain Blue Lobelia
‘Laguna Sky Blue’Laguna Sky Blue Lobelia
‘Laguna Cloud White’Laguna Cloud White Lobelia
The Story
Plant Bio
Upright perennial with sturdy stems bearing spikes of vibrant rose-pink flowers over deep green foliage.
A member of the 'Starship' series, known for its vigorous growth, long bloom season, and strong attraction for hummingbirds. Excellent for adding vertical interest to moist borders and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
22 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Regular moisture, avoid waterlogging
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America (hybrids)
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested; can cause severe discomfort.
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds just beneath the soil surface in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they have at least two sets of true leaves, after the last frost.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
- Pinch back to promote bushier growth and remove spent flowers.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Pinch back to encourage bushiness
- Deadhead spent flowers for continuous blooming
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
- Avoid excessive shade which reduces flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Starship Rose Cardinal Flower questions
What zones can Starship Rose Cardinal Flower grow in?
Starship Rose Cardinal Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Starship Rose Cardinal Flower deer resistant?
Yes — Starship Rose Cardinal Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Starship Rose Cardinal Flower bloom?
Starship Rose Cardinal Flower typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Starship Rose Cardinal Flower need full sun?
Starship Rose 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
Fan Cinnabar Rose Lobelia
Lobelia speciosa 'Fan Cinnabar Rose'
Lilac Candles Great Blue Lobelia
Lobelia siphilitica 'Lilac Candles'
Cardinal Flower 'Black Truffle'
Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'
Hybrid Cardinal Flower
Lobelia speciosa 'Compliment Violet'
Cardinal Flower Deep Rose
Lobelia cardinalis 'Deep Rose'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Starship Rose 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.