FADED INTO the MISTS of TIME

Cardinal Flower, Lobelia cardinalis requires rich, deep soil which remains reliably moist year-round. Because it grows in habitats similar to the Copper Iris and is also listed as threatened. Insects have problems accessing the nectar due to the shape of the bloom.  Hummingbirds on the other hand have no problem doing so, and seem to love the vibrant red blooms. This plant grows to about 4 foot tall and blooms from July to September here in Eastern Missouri.

North American indigenous peoples used root tea for a number of intestinal ailments and syphilis and used it externally for rheumatism and swelling.  I have planted the Cardinal Flower right outside the door of my office and water it every day.  I purchased my root stock for the Cardinal Flower from Prairie Moon Nursery in Winona, MN. While I don’t endorse businesses I have had great success with root stock I have purchased from them.