Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as Cardinal Flower, is a striking native perennial wildflower found in wetlands, along streambanks, and in moist meadows throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, moist to wet soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant grows 2 to 4 feet tall and is known for its vibrant, scarlet-red tubular flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, which are their primary pollinators, as well as butterflies and bees. Its dark green, lance-shaped leaves provide a lovely contrast to the brilliant blooms.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Lobelia cardinalis is an excellent choice for rain gardens, wetland restoration, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. It adds bold color and wildlife value, especially when paired with other moisture-loving natives like blue flag iris, swamp milkweed, and Joe-Pye weed. Since it prefers consistently moist soil, it benefits from mulching or planting in areas that retain water.
Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as Cardinal Flower, is a striking native perennial wildflower found in wetlands, along streambanks, and in moist meadows throughout Illinois. It thrives in rich, moist to wet soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant grows 2 to 4 feet tall and is known for its vibrant, scarlet-red tubular flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, which are their primary pollinators, as well as butterflies and bees. Its dark green, lance-shaped leaves provide a lovely contrast to the brilliant blooms.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Lobelia cardinalis is an excellent choice for rain gardens, wetland restoration, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. It adds bold color and wildlife value, especially when paired with other moisture-loving natives like blue flag iris, swamp milkweed, and Joe-Pye weed. Since it prefers consistently moist soil, it benefits from mulching or planting in areas that retain water.
Bloom: late summer to early fall
Habitats: borders of ponds; ditches; edges of small marshes; gravelly seeps and springs; openings in floodplains and bottomland woodlands; prairie swales; soggy meadows along rivers and streams; wet prairies
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: wet to moist
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 3.5 feet)
Requirements: full sun to light shade
Soil: gravel; loam; sand (should contain some organic matter to retain moisture)
