The Story
Plant Bio
Lobelia cardinalis 'Gladys Lindley' is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its tall, clump-forming habit, with vibrant pink tubular flowers and lance-shaped green foliage that attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
This cultivar is distinguished by its compact growth and clear, soft pink flowers, a rare color for this species.
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
Consistently moist
Humidity
Preferably high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seed or starter plants into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer during active growth.
- Pinch back to encourage bushier growth in early summer.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for propagation.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist for optimal flowering and health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous bloom
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
- Don’t fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers
- Refrain from cutting back in late fall
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Gladys Lindley Cardinal Flower questions
What zones can Gladys Lindley Cardinal Flower grow in?
Gladys Lindley 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 Gladys Lindley Cardinal Flower deer resistant?
Yes — Gladys Lindley Cardinal Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Gladys Lindley Cardinal Flower bloom?
Gladys Lindley 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 Gladys Lindley Cardinal Flower need full sun?
Gladys Lindley 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 Gladys Lindley 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.