The Cardinal Flower, Lobelia cardinalis, is a striking herbaceous perennial known for its intense, vibrant scarlet blooms. This native North American wildflower produces tall, erect spikes of tubular flowers, reaching two to four feet in height in late summer and early autumn. The flower’s elongated shape is perfectly adapted to the long beaks of hummingbirds, making it a highly sought-after plant for wildlife gardens.
Locating Retail Sources
The search for a Cardinal Flower begins with local independent garden centers and specialized nurseries, which often carry regionally sourced native plants. These businesses are more likely to stock varieties adapted to your specific climate and provide expert advice on local growing conditions. Checking with local conservation groups or county extension offices can help identify nurseries specializing in native species.
A native plant society is another good resource, frequently hosting seasonal sales events featuring high-quality, locally propagated stock. These events connect you directly with growers who understand the importance of genetic diversity and regional provenance.
For a wider selection, especially if local options are limited, reputable mail-order native nurseries provide a valuable alternative. These online sources often specialize in wetland plants like Lobelia cardinalis and can ship live plants directly to your door. When ordering online, place orders in early spring or fall to minimize the stress of shipping during peak summer heat.
Choosing the Right Stock
Cardinal Flowers are typically sold in three forms: seeds, bare roots, and potted plants or plugs. Each form is suited to different planting timelines and skill levels.
- Seeds are the most economical option, but they require cold stratification and patience for germination. Starting from seed is best for experienced gardeners planning a large planting area.
- Bare roots are dormant plants shipped without soil, offering a cost-effective choice for planting in early spring or late fall. They possess a more mature root system than small plugs.
- Potted plants or plugs are small plants already growing in soil, offering the highest rate of success for beginners. They can be transplanted immediately after the last frost.
It is strongly advised to purchase only nursery-propagated stock rather than wild-harvested plants. Reputable suppliers verify that their plants are “nursery-grown,” which supports sustainable horticulture and protects native ecosystems from over-collection.
Essential Growing Conditions
To ensure the success of your Cardinal Flower, you must replicate the consistently moist environment of its native habitat, such as streambanks and wet meadows. The plant requires soil that remains evenly moist or wet at all times, making it an excellent choice for a rain garden, bog garden, or the edge of a pond.
While the plant can tolerate full sun in northern regions, it generally performs best in partial shade, particularly where it receives protection from intense afternoon sun. In full sun, the need for water becomes even more pronounced. Amending the soil with rich organic matter, such as compost, significantly improves its capacity to retain moisture.
The Cardinal Flower is a short-lived perennial, meaning individual plants may only live for a few years, but they readily form new offsets or self-seed to perpetuate the colony. After the plant finishes blooming in the fall, avoid covering the small, ground-level basal rosettes with a thick layer of mulch or heavy leaf litter. These rosettes represent the next year’s growth and need exposure to air and light to survive the winter.