Cardinal Flower
(Lobelia cardinalis)

Left:  Lobelia cardinalis in ASMSA's garden in Summer 2024.

Above:  Reference photo of Lobelia cardinalis blooming mid-summer.

Plant Characteristics

Plant Preference/Growing Conditions: Lobelia cardinalis grows best in humus rich, moist soil with medium sun interaction. The plant can adapt to different soil types, including sand and hard clay, but too much water in the soil during winter will kill the plant. 

 

Growth Habit/Description: Lobelia cardinalis can grow in a large variety of different habitats due to its soil tolerance. Lobelia cardinalis need wet habitats like marshes, swamps, wetlands, woodlands, and wet meadows. They will stay alive annually as long as the soil isn't too saturated in the winter.

 

Bloom Season: Late summer through early fall. Typically between July and September.

 

Fall and/or Winter Interest?

No. Lobelia Cardinalis lies dormant in the winter.

Distribution

Habitat:  Praire, marsh, swamp, lowlands, grasslands, wetlands, etc. 

Native to Arkansas? Yes  

Native to Garland County?  Yes

Endemic to Arkansas?  No

Ecological Value

Host Plant for Caterpillars? Yes: Spicebush swallowtail, Black swallowtail, Pipevine swallowtail, Pink washed looper moth, Greater black letter dart moth, Red banded leafroller moth 


Other Known Ecological Value? Yes. Lobelia cardinalis is a primary producer of hummingbird nectar. Also, Lobelia cardinalis produces pollen for bees and butterfly. 

 

Other Interesting Facts

Origin of Name:   The flower was named due to its red color, which is the same color that catholic cardinals wear. 


Related Plant Species: Other Lobelia species include Lobelia siphilitica and Lobelia inflata.


Use For Food/Medicine: Lobelia cardinalis was used as a love charm by the Pawnee Indians by placing it in food. Many Indian tribes also used parts of the plant to treat headaches, fever, cramps, and upset stomachs.