Lobelia cardinalis.
Cardinal Flower is a perennial wildflower native to the eastern United States where it can often be found growing in wet areas near ponds or streams.
Plant grows to about 4 feet in height and produces spikes of stunning scarlet red flowers which bloom from July through September. An important nectar source for hummingbirds and swallowtail butterflies. Deer and other herbivores tend to avoid.
Cardinal Flower
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9 Light Requirement: Full sun to partial sun Soil Type: Rich, moist to wet, well draining Sow Depth: Surface Plant Spacing: 6 to 16 inches Germination Note: Cold stratification required Stratification Time: 60 days Bloom Time: July through September Growing Tips
Direct sow in late fall by planting on the soil's surface, as the seeds require light to grow. For spring planting, mix seeds with moist sand and store in refrigerator for 60 days before planting.
To start indoors, sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Provide light and keep soil moist until germination. Transplant once the danger of frost has passed.
A Note on Cold Stratification
These seeds require cold, moist stratification. To naturally stratify the seeds, plant outdoors late fall on a weed-free site and allow seeds to overwinter.
To artificially stratify the seeds, place the seeds and a moist medium (such as a damp paper towel, coffee filter, sand, or vermiculite) in a labeled, sealed plastic bag and store in a refrigerator (33-40°F) for the amount of time noted on the growth chart before sowing.