Add breathtaking color and wildlife appeal to your garden with Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), a stunning native perennial prized for its brilliant scarlet-red flower spikes. Blooming from mid-summer through early fall, this plant is a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a must-have for pollinator and rain gardens.
Native to the Americas, Cardinal Flower thrives in moist to wet soils, including rain gardens, stream edges, and low-lying areas where many plants struggle. Its upright habit and vivid color create dramatic vertical interest in naturalized landscapes, native plantings, and perennial borders.
Tough yet elegant, Cardinal Flower is deer and rabbit resistant and performs reliably in USDA Zones 3–9.
🌱 Why Grow Cardinal Flower Seeds?
✔ Brilliant scarlet-red native wildflower
✔ Attracts hummingbirds & butterflies
✔ Ideal for rain gardens & wet soils
✔ Deer & rabbit resistant
✔ Native perennial for naturalized landscapes
✔ Long bloom season (July–September)
🌿 Growing Tips
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Botanical Name: Lobelia cardinalis
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Common Name: Cardinal Flower
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Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
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USDA Zones: 3–9
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Height: 2–4 feet
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Spread: 1–2 feet
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Bloom Time: July–September
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Sun: Full sun to part shade
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Water: Medium to wet soil (do not allow to dry out)
🌰 Seed Starting Tips
- Cold stratification is recommended for best germination
- Surface sow seeds and press lightly into moist soil
- Keep soil consistently moist until seedlings establish
- Transplant to garden once well-rooted
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cardinal Flower native to the U.S.?
Yes, Lobelia cardinalis is native to much of North and Central America.
Does Cardinal Flower attract hummingbirds?
Absolutely—its scarlet-red blooms are a favorite nectar source.
Can it grow in wet soil?
Yes, it thrives in moist to wet conditions and is perfect for rain gardens.
Is Cardinal Flower deer resistant?
Yes, it is generally resistant to deer and rabbits.
Where to Buy Cardinal Flower Seeds for Sale?
At Seeds World, we offer fresh, high-quality Cardinal Flower seeds with excellent germination potential. Orders ship quickly within the U.S., so you can grow vibrant native color and support pollinators with confidence.
