Lobelia cardinalis

The Lobelia cardinalis, commonly known as the cardinal flower, thrives in the Chattanooga area. It is best to plant them in the spring or fall. The easiest way to grow cardinal flowers from seed is to just allow the flowers to develop seeds in the fall and then drop them around the plant. 

physical description

This plant has a bright red color, named after the color of a Roman Catholic cardinal’s robe.  They generally bloom in the summer (and sometimes into the fall) and generally grow to be about 3-4 feet tall. These are short-lived perennial plants that tend to live for 3-4 years. The plants readily reseed themselves giving them the appearance of having a longer life.  

habitat

The cardinal flower does well in the USDA plant hardiness zones 1-10. They can be found as far north as Canada and as far south as Colombia. It prefers wet soil, often growing along streams and ponds in nature. They do not grow well in mulch. These flowers need to be separated by 1 or 2 inches when planting to allow for optimal growth. They will grow best with some morning sun and afternoon shade. They need to be watered one or twice a week in the absence of rain. A layer of mulch around the soil, about 2-3 inches, will help hold in moisture.

images

uses

They do not attract many insects as it is difficult for them to navigate the trumpet like shape of the flower, but this plant is great for attracting hummingbirds that love the nectar provided by these flowers.

interesting information

Native Americans historically used the roots of the cardinal flower to make a tea for stomachache, syphilis, typhoid, worms, and love potions. However, this practice has since ended due to the plant's toxic properties.

Written by Professor Charlie Belin

Uses: Perhaps the most frequent use of this species is as a shade tree in yards and gardens. Of particular interest is that this species will shade a gathering area at one residence in the summer and allow full sun in the winter when its leaves are no longer present. Because of the hydrostatic pressure created in the roots, this species is not recommended as a street tree. The wood of this tree has been used in the production of furniture, boats, toys, general lumber and the production of plywood.