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Public Plant Profile

Great Blue Cardinal Flower

Lobelia siphilitica

Category: Perennial • Cardinal Flower

Great Blue Cardinal Flower features stunning blue blooms and attracts pollinators, perfect for borders and gardens.

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Mature Height: 2-3 feet

Mature Width: 1-1.5 feet

Bloom Color: Blue

Bloom Time: Summer

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 3-9

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Fall

Foliage: Deciduous

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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

Great Blue Cardinal Flower is a native perennial known for its striking blue flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It thrives in moist environments and adds vibrant color to gardens.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist soil. Thrives in well-drained, fertile conditions.

Soil Preferences

Requires good drainage and consistent moisture. Tolerates a range of pH levels and adapts to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

borderpollinator gardenmass planting

Special Features

Attractive blue flowersattracts pollinators

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for naturalized areas and can create a striking visual impact when planted in groups. Best used in moist locations.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Great Blue 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

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