Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal flower)

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) 

Height, Spread: 4-5 ft., 1-2 ft

Water/Soil: Moist-wet, high organic matter

Light: Full sun-part shade, part shade preferred

Bloom: Summer-Fall, showy red flowers

Native Range: Eastern & Central North America

Qualities: Attractive to pollinators, tolerates wet soil, NC Native

Notes: Brilliantly colored perennial wildflower commonly found in wetlands, moist woods, or riparian areas in the southeast. A favorite amongst pollinators, especially hummingbirds, who use it as a primary food source. Best planted in rain gardens, naturalized woodlands, pond margins, or garden borders.