Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

This plant has many brilliant red, large, tubular flowers in an elongated cluster on a simple erect stalk which is 2-4' (60-120cm) in height. The flowers are 11/2" (3.8cm) long, 5 petalled with 2 lips; upper with 2 lobes, lower with 3. The leaves are up to 6" (15cm) long, alternate, lancelot, toothed. This plant can be found in low grounds, damp sites, especially along streams. The flower of this plant is preeminently pollinated by hummingbirds.




Niering. William A. 1985. Wetlands. The Audubon Society Nature Guides. Random House, Toronto.


Robinson, B.L. and M.L. Fernald. 1908. Gray's New Manual of Botany 7ed: Flowering plants and ferns of the central and northestern United States and adjacent Canada. American Book Company.