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Public Plant Profile

Starship Scarlet Cardinal Flower

Lobelia x speciosa 'Starship Scarlet'

Category: Perennial • Cardinal Flower

Discover the vibrant Starship Scarlet Cardinal Flower, perfect for borders and pollinator gardens.

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Mature Height: 20-28 inches

Mature Width: 12-24 inches

Bloom Color: Red

Bloom Time: Mid-Summer through Early Fall

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 3-9

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Summer

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

Starship Scarlet Cardinal Flower is a stunning perennial known for its vibrant red blooms. This plant attracts pollinators and adds a splash of color to gardens. It thrives in various conditions, making it a versatile choice for flower beds and borders.

Ideal Conditions

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

Soil Preferences

Requires good drainage and moderate moisture. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH and adapts well to various soil types.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

borderpollinator garden

Special Features

Vibrant red flowersattracts hummingbirds

Wildlife Value

Attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate humidity and some drought tolerance once established.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding color to garden edges and attracting pollinators. Works well in mass plantings for a striking effect.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

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

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Starship Scarlet 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.

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