Cardinal Flower - Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal Floweris a species of Lobelia native to the Americas, from southeastern Canada south through the eastern and southwestern United States, Mexico and Central America to northern Colombia. It is an herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to four feet tall and is found in wet places, stream banks, and swamps. The flowers are usually vibrant red, deeply five-lobed, during the summer to fall. Cardinal Flower is pollinated by the ruby-throated hummingbird.
Easily grown in rich, humusy, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Needs constant moisture. Will tolerate full sun in cool, northern climates, but otherwise appreciates part shade. Divide clumps in spring as needed. May self-seed in optimum growing conditions.
