Lobelia cardinalis

cardinal flower

Eventual height & spread

Lobelia cardinalis

cardinal flower

  • 9cm pot
  • £11.99
  • In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Next/Named Day £10.99
  • Position: full sun or partial shade
  • Soil: deep, fertile, moist soil
  • Depth of water: 0-15cm (0-6in)
  • Rate of growth: average
  • Flowering period: June to October
  • Hardiness: frost hardy (may require winter protection)


This impressive perennial produces showy red flowers that really stand out from the crowd. They form in tall spires, which if cut back after the flowers have faded, will usually go on to form lateral shoots that will carry even more flowers later in the season. This usually ensures that there is a continuous display of flowers from early summer to mid-autumn. An exotic-looking plant that looks great at the edge of a pond or forming generous drifts in a bog garden.


  • Garden care:
    Plant potted Lobelia cardinalis in moist, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade, keeping the soil consistently damp, offering protection against slugs and snails.

    Once established, divide large clumps of plants every second year in spring. Protect the crown of the plant during winter with a thick, dry mulch, such as straw if above the waterline.

    This moisture-loving plant can also be grown at the edges of a pond, and will tolerate water levels up to 7cm (3in) but best purchased in aquatic pots (or potted up with aquatic soil). Please see our aquatic pot range here.
    • Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten; skin irritant

    Goes well with