Cardinal flower is a herbaceous perennial in the Campanulaceae (bellflower) family that may grow 4 to 5 feet tall. It is easily grown in rich, medium to wet soil in full sun to part shade. The soil should never be allowed to dry out, and It will tolerate brief flooding. Although it will tolerate full sun in northern climates, it appreciates partial afternoon shade in hot summer climates of the lower Midwest and South. Root mulch should be applied in cold winter climates to protect the root system and to prevent root heaving.
This plant was selected as the 1982, 1983 and 2001 NC Wildflower of the Year, a program managed by the North Carolina Botanical Garden with some financial support from the Garden Club of North Carolina.
Hummingbird Magnet!
