Cardinal Flower

Cardinal Flower, Lobelia cardinalis, is a popular Native Canadian flower featuring bright red flowers that serve as an important food source for Native wildlife. It prefers wet soil, so it's perfect for planting along the water's edge or near wetlands, ravines, and creeks. 
 
Cardinal Flower is a prolific self-seeder and fast grower,  so you get a lot of bang for your buck on this wildflower. They can even be added to bouquets, as they also make excellent cut flowers.
 
Note: Seeds require a cold period called stratification in order to germinate. For this reason, seeds are best sown outdoors in the fall. 
 
 
Plant Height: 3-4 feet
Seed planting depth: surface sow (light needed for germination)
Full Sun 
Plant in Fall
Plant Spacing: 12"
Soil Moisture: Wet to Medium
Perennial 
Hardiness Zone: 4-9
Difficulty: Medium