Lobelia cardinalis, also known as cardinal flower, is an herbaceous perennial. The common name references the red robes worn by Roman Catholic cardinals. It is native to the Americas, from southeastern Canada to northern Colombia. It can grow 4-5 ft. tall and blooms in the late summer into mid-fall. The ideal growing conditions include rich, wet soil in full sun to part shade.
This can be propagated in spring by seed or by separating the rosettes from the parent plant. It is a perfect addition to a pollinator garden, being a great nectar source for Swallowtail butterflies and hummingbirds. This is a toxic plant and should not be ingested by humans or pets.