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Cardinal flower

How to identify Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal flower, also known as Scarlet lobelia

Cardinal flower is a striking herbaceous perennial known for its brilliant red flowers, which blossom along a spiked inflorescence. The plant typically reaches heights of 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) tall. Each bloom comprises a two-lipped structure, characteristic of the Campanulaceae family. The bright coloration is easily visible against its lush, lance-shaped green leaves, which often cluster toward the base. These vivid blossoms and verdant foliage make cardinal flower an alluring presence in any garden setting.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Cardinal flower

1

Lance-shaped leaves with shiny, dark green color, finely-toothed edges, measuring up to 4 inches (10 cm).

2

Cardinal red flowers in tubular form, about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) long, with distinctive downward-pointing bend.

3

Erect spikes (racemes) of bright red blooms with bilabiate structure, blooming from July to October.

4

Dehiscent capsules turning brown at maturity, about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) long, releasing tiny seeds.

5

Herbaceous perennial reaching 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) tall with clustered lanceolate leaves at the base.

Cardinal flowerCardinal flowerCardinal flowerCardinal flowerCardinal flower

Detailed Traits of Cardinal flower

Leaf Features

The leaves of cardinal flower are finely-toothed and lance-shaped, pointed on both ends, and typically measure up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length. They have a shiny, dark green appearance. The leaves are alternately arranged on branched stalks, rising to a height of 2-3 feet (60-90 cm), sometimes reaching up to 4 feet (120 cm). The lanceolate leaves have a serrate margin and exhibit a robust, glossy texture, making them a distinctive feature for identification.

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Flower Features

The flowers of cardinal flower are cardinal red, tubular, and bilabiate, with a velvety texture. Each flower is about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) long, with a distinct bend causing the opening to point downward. The upper lip splits into two lobes, while the lower lip has three more prominent lobes. Two whitish anthers are attached to the underside of the upper lip. They bloom from July to October in erect, terminal spikes (racemes) and also occur in white and rose-colored varieties.

Cardinal flower Flower image
Inflorescence Type

Raceme

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Fruit Features

The fruit of cardinal flower is a small, capsule-like pod measuring approximately 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long. It is typically oval-shaped, with a smooth green surface that matures into a dark brown color. The capsule splits open when ripe, releasing numerous small, brown seeds. These seeds are round and tiny, aiding in wide dispersal. The fruit features no distinct aroma and is not fleshy, distinguishing it from many berry-type fruits.

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Key Facts About Cardinal flower

Attributes of Cardinal flower
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 8 cm
Flower Color
Red
Pink
Fruit Color
Brown
Stem Color
Green
Red
Leaf type
Deciduous
The Toxicity of Cardinal flower
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Scientific Classification of Cardinal flower

Species
Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Learn More About the Cardinal flower

Distribution Map of Cardinal flower

Native to the Americas, the cardinal flower has also been introduced to Trinidad-Tobago. It is popular in woodland gardens and wet areas such as streams and wet meadows. The cardinal flower has also been cultivated in a range of gardens for its ornamental blooms.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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