Common
name: "Cardinal Flower"
Latin name: Lobelia cardinalis
Native
to: United States
Zone: 3 - 9
Winter hardy: Yes
Water depth: 1" - 4"
Pond size: Small to Large
Flowers: Yes, bright red
Height: 30" - 36"
Spread: 12"
Pests: Aphids, leaf spot and water snails
Sunshine:
Pictured:
Lobelia cardinalis
Cultural
information: The "Cardinal Flower" originally
named by the wife of Charles 1... Queen Maria, because the color
of the plants flowers were the same shade as the Cardinal's
robe... hence cardinalis.
Plant in early spring at the ponds
edge or directly in the pond at a maximum depth of 4". Cut
plants back at the end of the growing season. If grown in a pond basket, remove from the pond at the end of
the season and store heavily mulched in a protected location. Remove any dead or dying
foliage and flowers as they appear. With a little
searching... you may be able to locate the new hybrid Lobelia
called 'Queen Victoria'.
The Lobelia family is quite large. Most of us are familiar with
the small flowering varieties found in hanging baskets and patio
pots. Your local Garden Center will have a good supply of Lobelias
in the early spring.
