Cardinal flower - Lobelia cardinalis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Cardinal flower

Also known as: Scarlet lobelia

The cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows from 61 to 183 cm tall. Showy red flowers bloom spring through fall. Named for its red flowers that are similar to a Cardinal's robe, these blossoms attract hummingbirds to the garden. Its fruits are blue and foliage changes color in fall. It prefers sun to partial shade with moist soil. Perfect for wet areas.

Scientific classification

Species

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green, Red

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Red, Pink

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Cardinal flower

Attributes of Cardinal flower

Growth Rate

Exhibiting a moderate growth rate, cardinal flower notably evolves during the spring. Its growth speed contributes to steady elongation, ensuring upward progression towards its mature height. Springtime witnesses a flourish of leaf production and initiates the development of cardinal flower's heaven-reaching flower spikes. Growth rates may vary across seasons, with spring standing out as its active growth phase. This pattern illuminates a fascinating facet of cardinal flower's horticultural behaviour, merging growth speed and seasonality into a harmonious natural rhythm.

Distribution of Cardinal flower

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp shores, meadows, swamps

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

This common perennial provides handsome red clusters of late summer flowers. Because of its unusual bloom time and appeal to pollinators, the cardinal flower is a welcome addition to most types of gardens, from butterfly to cottage to bog gardens. This plant does well near water as well, adding a touch of color to pond or stream banks. Swamp milkweed, swamp rose, and water parsnip make great companion plants for cardinal flower.

Symbolism

Distinction

Name Story

Cardinal flower: This plant was introduced to Europe in the mid-1620s when the plant was called Cardinal flower. It was likely due to the similarity of the flower's color to the vesture of Roman Catholic Cardinals.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Cardinal flower, including the following common varieties :

Lobelias 'Pink Elephant'Cardinal flower 'Queen Victoria'Lobelias 'Hadspen Purple'

Toxicity

The cardinal flower plant is mildly toxic, containing lobelamine and lobeline. It mainly affects small children, cats, and dogs if ingested in large amounts. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue, potentially escalating to coma or death. All plant parts are toxic; keep children and pets away, and seek vet assistance if consumed.

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Quickly Identify Cardinal flower

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

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

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

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

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

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Care Guide for Cardinal flower

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cardinal flower thrives in moist environments and prefers consistent moisture, with moderate drought tolerance. Weekly watering promotes lush growth. As an herbaceous perennial, it benefits from natural rainfall, enhancing its water cycle and supporting vibrant flowering during the growing season.

Fertilize: Cardinal flower requires balanced fertilizers (10-10-10) applied bimonthly during growth for optimal vigor. Increase phosphorus to promote blooming, using less in winter. Avoid over-fertilization; dilute to half-strength to prevent root burn. Adjust ratios seasonally for best results.

Pruning: Prune cardinal flower in early to late spring to promote healthy growth and remove dead stems. After flowering, cut back to the base to prepare for next season and prevent self-seeding. Regular pruning enhances air circulation and reduces disease risk, supporting robust flowering.

Propagation: Cardinal flower propagation is ideally conducted by sowing in early Spring. This straightforward method leads to success when germination and vibrant young shoots appear. Consistent moisture levels are crucial for promoting healthy growth.

Repotting: Cardinal flower is a vibrant perennial, growing 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 m) tall. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a larger container. After repotting, keep the soil moist and provide partial shade for optimal growth, showcasing brilliant red colors in your garden.

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Images of Cardinal flower

Attributes of Cardinal flower

Distribution of Cardinal flower

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Cardinal flower

Care Guide for Cardinal flower

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