Image 1 of 1

Public Plant Profile

Cardinal Flower

Lobelia cardinalis

Category: Perennial • Cardinal Flower

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) features striking red blooms and attracts pollinators, perfect for gardens.

Request Consultation Browse All Plants

Mature Height: 2-4 feet

Mature Width: 1-2 feet

Bloom Color: Red

Bloom Time: Summer to early fall

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 3-9

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Summer

Foliage: Deciduous

Community Photos

Upload some of your best photos for this plant by clicking below.

Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Cardinal Flower is a striking perennial known for its vibrant red flowers that attract hummingbirds. It thrives in moist, rich soils and is often found near water sources.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade with consistent moisture. Prefers rich, well-drained soil.

Soil Preferences

Requires good drainage and moist conditions; adaptable to various soil types with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

pollinator gardenmass planting

Special Features

Attractive red flowersattracts hummingbirds

Wildlife Value

Attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate humidity tolerance, not drought-tolerant.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for naturalized areas and along water features. Provides vibrant color in summer.

Related Plants

See How Similar Plants Are Used in Real Landscapes

Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Cardinal Flower may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

What Clients Say

★★★★★

“Josh of Bold Outdoors was a very professional, hard working landscape service provider. He worked with me very well blending his ideas with that I had already done in my landscape. He worked with me instead of telling…”

Ann R.

★★★★★

“Josh designed and installed a two-tiered paver-stone patio for us as well as front and backyard landscaping. I could not be more thrilled with the job they did! It looks simply fantastic. I've known Josh for several…”

Jerie B.

Helpful Next Steps

Browse All Plants See Design Services Request a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cardinal Flower a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.

Request a Consultation Browse All Plants