Key Facts
- Native perennial of eastern and central North America
- Upright clump forming perennial with bright red tubular flowers
- Highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators
- Prefers consistently moist to wet soils and tolerates heavy clay
- Blooms in mid summer into early fall
- Hardy in cooler temperate climates and listed for USDA zones 3–9
- Propagated by seed and division and will self seed in suitable sites
Cardinal Flower is a native clump-forming perennial with bright red tubular blooms that reliably attract hummingbirds. It prefers consistently moist to wet soils and flowers from mid summer into early fall in many temperate areas.
Identification
Upright plants reach about 2 to 4 feet tall and form clumps roughly 1 to 2 feet across. Flower spikes of bright red tubular blossoms appear in summer and into early fall and are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Where to grow and best uses
Use Cardinal Flower in rain gardens, along pond or stream edges, and in moist cottage borders where consistent soil moisture can be maintained. It works well as a vertical accent in mixed perennial beds and can naturalize by self-seeding in suitable wet sites. It is not a groundcover or climber.
Planting and spacing
Space plants about 12 to 24 inches apart to accommodate clump spread and airflow. Sow tiny seeds on the soil surface because they are very small and need light to germinate. Divide established clumps and replant in spring to expand or refresh plantings.
Soil, light and watering
Cardinal Flower prefers consistently moist to wet soils and tolerates heavy clay. Plants in dry soils decline and flower poorly. It grows in full sun to part shade and benefits from partial shade in hot, drought-prone climates to reduce stress.
After-flowering care and control
Cut back spent flower spikes to keep clumps tidy and to limit self-seeding where volunteer seedlings are undesired. Dig and divide crowded clumps to renew vigor and to move plants to other moist spots in the garden.
Containers and special situations
Cardinal Flower can grow in containers when kept consistently moist and planted in a rich potting mix. Containers will need more frequent watering than in-ground plantings and should sit where drainage into a wet area is avoided.
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division. Seeds are very small and are typically surface-sown. Division of clumps in spring is an easy way to produce mature flowering plants more quickly. Plants will also self-seed in suitable moist sites.
Toxicity and safety
All parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested. Keep plants away from children and pets and consult local poison control or a veterinarian for guidance if ingestion is suspected.
Frequently asked questions
- How fast does Cardinal Flower grow?
- Plants typically reach the species’ mature height of about 2 to 4 feet depending on site quality and moisture. Rate of growth varies with light and soil moisture.
- When does Cardinal Flower bloom?
- Bloom period is generally summer into early fall, often July through September in many temperate locations, with timing varying by climate.
- Will Cardinal Flower spread or become invasive?
- It forms clumps and can increase by self-seeding in moist sites. It is not known as a rampant rhizome spreader in typical garden settings.
- How should I water Cardinal Flower?
- Provide consistent moisture. Plants in dry soils tend to decline and produce fewer flowers.
- Can I grow Cardinal Flower in a container?
- Yes if the container mix is kept consistently moist and the pot receives adequate light while avoiding drought stress.
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