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Hardy perennial
Campanulaceae
Perennials
Cardinal Flower
Cardinal flower
Cardinal Flower: 90 cm high and 30 cm spread, sun to partial shade. Red flowers in July-September. Zone 3; choose a soil compatible with its moisture needs.
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
- Life cycle
- Hardy perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 3
Discover the plant
Common nameCardinal Flower
FamilyCampanulaceae
GenusLobelia
Speciescardinal
TypeHardy perennial
Botanical nameCardinal flower
Lobelia cardinalis, known in the garden as Cardinal Flower, combines red-toned blossoms with a size that is easy to incorporate into a planting scheme. The foliage displays shades of green, which can be highlighted among different textures. The usual flowering period is July-September. Its dimensions of 90 cm by 30 cm reserve it a spot in the middle of a border and for group plantings, without forgetting the space of its neighbors.
In terms of cultivation, Cardinal Flower prefers full sun to partial shade; the recommended soil is humus-rich, retaining its freshness during growth, without stagnant water around the crown. For Cardinal Flower, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering according to rainfall; this exposure (full sun to partial shade) does not eliminate water needs. A margin corresponding to its spread of 30 cm avoids having to move the clump in the first seasons. The indicated hardiness zone is 3, to be assessed according to your garden's conditions.
To maintain the interest of Cardinal Flower after blooming, keep the crown clear and remove dry stems, taking care of the small basal shoots. Perennial lobelias in cool environments require consistent watering in summer; dry soil reduces their vigor. For companion planting, consider daylilies, coneflowers, and perennial geraniums in varieties with similar needs. The flowering (July-September) and the spread of 30 cm will serve as guides for arranging other plants around this plant.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Spacing / density
30 cm
Best planting time
Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing the roots to establish before the severe cold.
Propagation
Division of clumps. Sowing does not guarantee the fidelity of a named cultivar.
Growing method
Cardinal Lobelia: In spring after the thaw, or in early autumn, allowing the roots time to establish before the severe cold. For Cardinal Lobelia, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry, and adjust watering based on rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate its water requirements. Perennial lobelias that thrive in cool environments need consistent watering in summer; dry soil reduces their vigor.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Care level
Regular maintenance
Watering
For Lobelia cardinalis, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering according to rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate the need for water.
Soil type
Humus-rich, keeping its freshness during growth, without stagnant water around the collar
Fertilization
Fertilizer for flowering
Moisture
Regular freshness during growth
Seasonal care
Cardinal Lobelia: keep the crown clear and remove dead stems, taking care of the small basal shoots. During its flowering period (July-September), also monitor damaged stems and neighboring plants that might hide the clump.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
Stable and perforated container, significantly wider than the root ball; size to be adapted to the format sold and to adult development.
To try Cardinal Flower in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suited to the root ball and its future size (30 cm). The substrate should remain moist; it will dry out faster than in the ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
3 feet (91.5 cm)
Width / spread
12 inches (30.5 cm)
Flower color
Red
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Lapsed
Growth rate
Moderate
Growth habit
Erected
Fragrance
Not documented for this selection
Bloom period
July-September
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Associations to consider for Lobelia cardinalis: daylilies, echinaceas, perennial geraniums. Choose varieties that tolerate sun to partial shade and comparable moisture; allow each clump its adult space.
Plants to avoid
Around Cardinal Flower, especially avoid neighbors that would cover its leaves or strongly compete with its root ball. Compatibility of light, water, and spread takes precedence over a list of so-called enemy plants.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
Where to plant Cardinal Flower?
Provide sun to partial shade and suitable soil (humus-rich, keeping its freshness during growth, with no stagnant water around the collar). Perennial lobelias in cool environments need regular watering in summer; dry soil reduces their vigor.
What space should I reserve for Lobelia cardinalis?
Expect a height of around 90 cm and a width of 30 cm at maturity. Allow about 30 cm between centers, to be adjusted according to the actual development of the clump. This size is suitable for use in the middle of a flowerbed and for group planting.
When does Lobelia cardinalis bloom?
The indicated period is July-September. The color palette of the flowers is red. The exact date and duration depend on the climate, the season and the plant's establishment.
How to water and care for Cardinal Flower?
For Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering based on rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Keep the crown clear and remove dry stems, taking care of the small basal shoots.
Can Lobelia cardinalis be grown in pots?
To try Cardinal Flower in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (30 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out faster than in open ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
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