The Story
Plant Bio
Lobelia cardinalis 'Alba' is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its upright growth habit, lance-shaped green foliage, and striking pure white, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators.
This cultivar is distinguished by its elegant white flowers, offering a stunning contrast in gardens and flower beds, and is particularly valued for its long-lasting blooms and adaptability to moist, well-drained soils.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
18 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 into moist soil in early spring
- Keep soil consistently moist during growing season
- Provide partial shade in hotter climates
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer
- Pinch back to encourage bushiness after flowering
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Start from seed indoors 6 weeks before last frost for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 💧
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
- Provide well-drained, rich soil
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings ❌
- Expose to harsh winter conditions without protection
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| 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
Alba White Cardinal Flower questions
What zones can Alba White Cardinal Flower grow in?
Alba White 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 Alba White Cardinal Flower deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Alba White Cardinal Flower, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Alba White Cardinal Flower bloom?
Alba White 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 Alba White Cardinal Flower need full sun?
Alba White 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 Alba White 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.