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Ornamental Gardening
11 Incredible Cardinal Flower for 2024
Published: August 5, 2023
Discover the 11 most stunning cardinal flower varieties for your garden in 2023. Explore vibrant colors, unique features, and expert tips to enhance your floral display.
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Introducing "11 Incredible Cardinal Flower for 2023" – a comprehensive guide that explores the mesmerizing varieties of cardinal flowers anticipated to captivate gardening enthusiasts in the coming year. From their vibrant hues to delicate petals and graceful forms, these stunning blossoms are sure to add a burst of color and elegance to any garden or landscape. As a content writer expert, I am thrilled to delve into the intricacies of these remarkable cardinal flowers and share insights on their cultivation, care, and aesthetic appeal. Join me on this exciting journey to discover the most incredible cardinal flower specimens for 2023.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The American Beauties Native Plants – Lobelia cardinalis is a gorgeous perennial plant with green foliage and striking red flowers. It comes in a convenient #1 Size Container, fully rooted and ready to be planted. This plant is a real show stopper in any sunny garden, attracting native pollinators, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its captivating summer bloom. With its purple-bronze foliage and long-lasting flowers, it brings life and vibrancy to any space. The Cardinal Flower is deer resistant and a hummingbird magnet, making it a must-have addition to any garden. Plant it in moist soils or even in a rain garden for optimal growth and beauty.
Key Features
- USDA Zone: 4-8
- Mature size: 2-3ft H x 18-24in W
- Purple-bronze foliage with bold red flowers
- Attracts native pollinators, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Deer resistant, perfect for rain gardens
Specifications
- Color: Green foliage with red flowers
- Dimension: 18.00Lx18.00Wx24.00H
- Size: #1 – Size Container
Pros
- Attractive and vibrant foliage and flowers
- Easy to plant, fully rooted in soil
- Attracts native pollinators and hummingbirds
- Deer resistant
Cons
- Some customers experienced inconsistent growth
- A few reports of plants not surviving transportation
The American Beauties Native Plants – Lobelia cardinalis is a stunning perennial that adds a burst of color and life to any garden. Its captivating red flowers and purple-bronze foliage create a show-stopping display, attracting native pollinators, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The plant is well-packaged, healthy, and easy to plant upon arrival. While there have been some reports of inconsistent growth, the majority of customers have been delighted with the quality and beauty of this plant. If you’re looking to create a vibrant, wildlife-friendly garden, the Cardinal Flower is an excellent choice.
Overall Score: 7.2/10
The Everwilde Farms Cardinal Flower Native Wildflower Seeds is a high-quality seed packet designed for immediate planting or long-term storage. The packet features exclusive Gold Vault Packaging, providing 3X longer storage than traditional materials. The resealable and reusable zipper bag makes it easy to store excess seeds. The packet includes detailed planting instructions and additional online resources via a QR code. The seeds come in a Gold Vault Jumbo Seed Packet and have been tested for quality. With a beautiful color combination of gold and red, these native wildflower seeds are perfect for attracting wildlife and adding a splash of color to any garden.
Key Features
- First Quality Native Wildflower Seeds with Lab Test Data
- Exclusive Gold Vault Packaging for Long-Term Storage
- Resealable/Reusable Zipper Bag for Storing Excess Seeds
- Bulk Seed Suitable for Immediate Planting or Emergency Seed Vault
- Detailed Planting Instructions on Back with Online Info
Specifications
- Color: Gold, Red
- Size: Gold Vault Jumbo Seed Packet
Pros
- High-quality seeds that have been tested
- Beautiful color combination of gold and red
- Packaging provides long-term storage
- Zipper bag allows for easy storage of excess seeds
- Detailed planting instructions and online resources available
Cons
- Some customers received incorrect seeds
- Few reports of seeds not germinating
The Everwilde Farms Cardinal Flower Native Wildflower Seeds offer a convenient and reliable option for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their gardens. With high-quality seeds and exclusive Gold Vault Packaging, these seeds are suitable for immediate planting or long-term storage. The detailed planting instructions and online resources make it easy to grow these beautiful native wildflowers. While there have been a few reports of incorrect seeds and some seeds not germinating, overall the product has received positive reviews and is recommended for those looking to attract wildlife and enhance their garden with vibrant flowers.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Cardinal Flower is a stunning live pond plant that will add beauty and elegance to your water garden. With its vibrant color, it will surely attract hummingbirds and other wildlife to your pond. This Midwest native plant is easy to grow and acts as a natural filter, improving the clarity and quality of your water. It provides an excellent habitat for your fish and other aquatic wildlife. You can grow it in bogs, on plant shelves, or in shallow water. Our plants are grown by skilled aquatic plant experts and are guaranteed to arrive alive and healthy. Enhance your water garden with the Cardinal Flower and create a vibrant and thriving ecosystem.
Key Features
- HUMMINGBIRD MAGNET! Lure hummingbirds into your water garden.
- MIDWEST NATIVE! Thrives in Missouri and requires little maintenance.
- MOTHER NATURE KNOWS BEST! Acts as a natural filter and provides habitat for fish and wildlife.
- BLACK THUMB FRIENDLY! Easy to grow with minimal care.
- 100% QUALITY GUARANTEE! Grown and shipped by trusted experts.
Specifications
- Color: Cardinal Flower
Pros
- Vibrant and beautiful plant
- Arrives in great condition
- Excellent customer service
- Acts as a natural filter for water
- Attracts hummingbirds and wildlife
Cons
- Slow grower with few flowers
- Higher price compared to other sellers
The Cardinal Flower is a fantastic addition to any water garden. Its vibrant color and ability to attract hummingbirds make it a true beauty. The plant is easy to grow, and its natural filtering properties ensure the clarity and quality of your water. While it may be a slow grower, the Cardinal Flower compensates with its stunning appearance and the habitat it provides for fish and other wildlife. The customer reviews reflect the overall satisfaction with this plant, from its healthy arrival to the exceptional customer service received. If you’re looking to enhance your water garden and create a thriving aquatic ecosystem, the Cardinal Flower is an excellent choice.
Overall Score: 5.5/10
The VAACNEE 100 Red Cardinal Flower Lobelia Cardinalis Seeds is a beautiful perennial wildflower that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden. Despite its name, it does not attract cardinals. This wildflower is typically found near woodland streams or swamps and prefers moist conditions. It can be grown in partial to full sun and reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet. The cardinal flower blooms in the late summer and early fall, adding vibrant red color to your garden. The seeds can be slightly difficult to germinate and require a period of freezing before planting. However, they come with complete planting and growing instructions to help you succeed.
Key Features
- Perennial wildflower that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Grows in clumps and reaches 2 to 3 feet tall
- Prefers moist conditions and partial to full sun
- Complete planting and growing instructions provided
Specifications
- Color: Green, Red
Pros
- Attracts pollinators
- Grows well in moist conditions
- Comes with planting instructions
Cons
- Difficult to germinate
- Mixed reviews on seed germination
The VAACNEE 100 Red Cardinal Flower Lobelia Cardinalis Seeds is a beautiful addition to any garden, attracting pollinators and adding vibrant color. While the seed germination may be a bit challenging, the complete planting instructions provided can help ensure success. It’s important to note that some customers have had mixed experiences with seed germination, so it may be worth considering other options if you’re looking for a more reliable outcome. Overall, if you’re up for the challenge and enjoy the beauty of cardinal flowers, this product could be a worthwhile addition to your garden.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Cardinal Flower Plant (Lobelia cardinalis) is a useful herb and a pollinator plant that thrives in damp soil. Ideal for planting around ponds or areas with water run-off, this perennial deciduous herb attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Easy to grow, the Cardinal Flower prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It reaches maturity in 2 years and remains hardy to 0°F. With its beautiful crimson blooms in late summer, it adds height and eye-catching color to your garden. The plant is deer resistant and naturally grown without pesticides or synthetic inputs. Smoke Camp Crafts, a women-owned business, guarantees that the plant will grow and offers replacements free of charge.
Key Features
- USEFUL HERB- Thrives in damp soil, perfect around ponds.
- POLLINATOR PLANT- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- EASY-TO-GROW- Germination temperature: 70°F; seedlings emerge in 21 days.
- DEER RESISTANT- Bitter taste repels deer.
- BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS- Crimson blooms in late summer.
- NATURALLY GROWN- No pesticides or synthetic inputs used.
- GUARANTEED TO GROW- Replacements sent free of charge.
- WOMEN-OWNED- WBENC certified small, woman-owned business.
Specifications
- Color: Red
- Dimension: 7.00Lx4.00Wx4.00H
Pros
- Thrives in damp soil
- Attracts pollinators
- Bitter taste repels deer
- Beautiful crimson blooms
Cons
The Cardinal Flower Plant is a valuable addition to any garden, with its ability to thrive in damp soil and attract pollinators. Its beautiful crimson blooms add a pop of color and height to your outdoor space. The plant’s deer resistance and natural growth make it a hassle-free option for any gardener. With Smoke Camp Crafts’ guarantee to provide replacements and their commitment as a women-owned business, this Cardinal Flower Plant is a reliable choice for both seasoned and novice gardeners. Plant it by a pond or in a well-draining area, and enjoy its vibrant blooms and the buzzing of bees and fluttering of butterflies.
Overall Score: 7/10
Enhance your garden with vibrant Cardinal Flower Seeds. With 700 seeds or .05 gram, this pack offers an opportunity to cultivate a stunning display of red and green flowers. The seeds can be stratified in the freezer for two weeks to increase germination. Some customers have experienced a high germination rate, while others have had limited success. Additionally, the exact origin of the seeds may raise uncertainty for some gardeners. It is important to note that the seeds are small and grow into beautiful Cardinal Flowers. However, a few customers have noticed variations in the species, which could be due to inaccurate seed collection. Overall, the Cardinal Flower Seeds offer garden enthusiasts the chance to add a splash of color to their outdoor space.
Key Features
- 700 seeds or .05 gram
- Vibrant red and green color
- Can be stratified for increased germination
Specifications
- Color: Red, Green
- Size: 700 seeds, .05 gram
Pros
- Can achieve high germination rate with proper stratification
- Adds a vibrant touch of color to gardens
Cons
- Uncertainty regarding seed origin
- Variations in species reported by some customers
The Cardinal Flower Seeds provide the opportunity to grow beautiful red and green flowers in your garden. While there have been mixed experiences with germination and concerns about seed origin, the vibrant colors of the Cardinal Flowers can still enhance any outdoor space. With proper stratification techniques, the germination rate can be improved. However, it is important to note that there have been reports of variation in species, which may be attributed to seed collection methods. Overall, this product offers garden enthusiasts the chance to add a splash of color to their gardens and enjoy the beauty of Cardinal Flowers.
Overall Score: 6/10
The Cardinal Flower Live Plant by Wellspring Gardens is a beautiful addition to any garden. This starter plant is delivered in a 3-inch-deep pot and ranges from 3 to 8 inches in height. It features stunning red blooms that add a pop of color to your outdoor space. The Cardinal Flower is grown in a licensed nursery in Florida, ensuring its quality. If you have any questions or problems with your plant, simply send a picture within 48 hours after arrival for their live delivery guarantee. While some customers have experienced disappointment with the plant's growth and flower potential, others have praised its health and quality. Overall, the Cardinal Flower Live Plant is a great choice for gardeners looking for a vibrant and eye-catching plant.
Key Features
- Plant ranges from 3-8 inches tall in a 3-inch-deep (4.90 fl oz/145.0 m L) pot.
- From a licensed nursery (Florida Nursery Registration No: 47234100)
- Questions? Problems? Send a picture of your plant(s) within 48 hours after arrival so we can assess for our Live Delivery Guarantee!
Specifications
- Color: Red
- Size: Between 3 and 8 inches in height
Pros
- Beautiful red blooms add color to your garden
- Grown in a licensed nursery for quality assurance
- Live delivery guarantee for any issues or concerns
Cons
- Some customers experienced slow or limited growth
- Potential for disappointment in flower production
The Cardinal Flower Live Plant from Wellspring Gardens is a visually striking addition to any garden. While there have been mixed reviews regarding its growth and flower production, it is undeniable that the plant is healthy and well cared for. The live delivery guarantee provides peace of mind for any potential issues. If you’re looking for a vibrant plant to enhance your outdoor space, the Cardinal Flower is definitely worth considering.
Overall Score: 4.8/10
Introducing the MNDRLIN Lobelia Flower Red Cardinal Flower Seeds! This perennial wildflower boasts stunning crimson leaves and scarlet flowers that sit atop tall stems. It thrives in wet areas and will instantly grab attention in your flower beds. However, these cardinal flower seeds can be a bit tricky to germinate, requiring a stint in the freezer for 60 days before planting. While they may not attract actual cardinals, they are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Please note that some customers have reported receiving different seeds than what was advertised. Overall, this product offers a beautiful addition to your garden, but be prepared for some challenges in getting the seeds to sprout.
Key Features
- Perennial with crimson leaves and scarlet flowers
- Grows well near wet areas
- Slightly difficult to germinate, require 60 days in freezer
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Specifications
- Color: Green,Red
- Size: 75 seeds
Pros
- Beautiful crimson leaves and scarlet flowers
- Attracts beneficial pollinators
- Perennial, comes back year after year
Cons
- Seeds may not germinate easily
- Freezing required to aid germination
- Some customers received different seeds than advertised
The MNDRLIN Lobelia Flower Red Cardinal Flower Seeds are a gorgeous addition to any garden. Their vibrant crimson leaves and scarlet flowers will surely make a statement. While the germination process can be a bit tricky, the end result is worth it. These perennial plants will keep coming back year after year, attracting beneficial pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Just be cautious of potential discrepancies in the received seeds compared to the advertised ones. Overall, if you’re willing to put in the effort, these cardinal flower seeds can create a stunning display in your flower beds and provide a delightful habitat for pollinators.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Cardinal Flower is a stunning addition to any garden, with its vibrant red blooms and tall, elegant stalks. This perennial plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, adding a touch of beauty and life to your outdoor space. With a moderate level of care, the Cardinal Flower can thrive in various soil types and light conditions. Its long-lasting blooms make it a popular choice for adding color and interest to flower beds, borders, and containers. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the Cardinal Flower is a must-have for creating a vibrant and inviting garden.
Key Features
- Vibrant red blooms
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
- Thrives in various soil types and light conditions
- Long-lasting blooms
- Suitable for flower beds, borders, and containers
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Adds vibrant color and life to the garden
- Attracts pollinators for a thriving ecosystem
- Easy to grow and maintain
- Versatile plant for different garden setups
Cons
- Limited availability of specifications
- May require additional care in extreme weather conditions
The Cardinal Flower is a stunning and vibrant addition to any garden. Its attractive red blooms and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies make it a popular choice among garden enthusiasts. While the lack of detailed specifications may be a downside, the Cardinal Flower is generally easy to grow and maintain. Its versatility allows it to thrive in a variety of garden setups, from flower beds to containers. Overall, this perennial plant is a great choice for adding a burst of color and life to your outdoor space, creating an inviting and thriving ecosystem.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Collections Etc in Loving Memory Cardinal Memorial Garden Vase Stake is a beautiful and heartfelt way to remember a loved one. This memorial vase stakes easily into the ground and can be filled with real or faux flowers. The design features a cardinal pair and a sentimental message that reads, 'In loving memory of a life so beautifully lived and a heart so deeply loved.' The vase is made of resin and has an iron stake. It measures 5 inches in diameter and 9 inches deep, with a drainage hole in the bottom. The vase comes in a gray color. Overall, it is a touching and attractive option for honoring the memory of a special person.
Key Features
- Memorial vase stakes easily into the ground
- Can be filled with real or faux flowers
- Lovely design with a sentimental message
- 5-inch diameter planting area with drainage hole
- Made of resin with an iron stake
Specifications
- Color: Gray
- Dimension: 5.38Lx5.25Wx17.75H
Pros
- Beautiful and heartfelt design
- Sturdy construction
- Can accommodate plenty of flowers
Cons
- Some customers experienced bad craftsmanship
- Spike could be longer
The Collections Etc in Loving Memory Cardinal Memorial Garden Vase Stake offers a touching and attractive way to remember and honor a loved one. Its beautiful design, sturdy construction, and ample space for flowers make it a popular choice among customers. However, there have been a few complaints about the craftsmanship and the length of the spike. Overall, this memorial vase stake provides a poignant and meaningful addition to any garden or cemetery.
Overall Score: 6.4/10
The Cardinal Flower Seed Packet by True Native Seed is a must-have for any gardening enthusiast. This packet contains pure live seed, not bulk, and is designed for planting in a 15 square foot area. The Cardinal Flower is a native perennial with stunning red lipped flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. It thrives in moist soils and prefers some shade, although it can tolerate full sun. With free shipping included, this seed packet is perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden.
Key Features
- Free shipping
- Pure Live Seed, not bulk
- US Native species
- Designed for 15 Square Feet of Planting
- 2’ to 4’ tall native perennial with brilliant red lipped flowers
Specifications
- Color: Red
Pros
- Free shipping
- Large quantity of seeds
- Suitable for attracting butterflies
- Hardy plant
Cons
- Seeds arrived spilling out of the package
- Lack of information on sowing method and germination time
- Some customers had no success with germination
- May require specific growing conditions
The Cardinal Flower Seed Packet by True Native Seed is a great option for gardeners looking to add a splash of vibrant red to their outdoor space. While it may require some specific growing conditions, this native perennial is known for its hardiness and ability to attract butterflies. Customers have been pleased with the large quantity of seeds included in the packet, although there have been a few complaints about the packaging and lack of instructions. Overall, this seed packet provides great value for money and the potential for a beautiful addition to any garden.
Cardinal Flower Buyer's Guide
Benefits of Cardinal Flowers
- Adds vibrant color to your garden or landscape
- Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees
- Thrives in wet soil and can help with erosion control
Things to Consider Before Buying Cardinal Flowers
- Climate: Cardinal flowers are native to North America and thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. Make sure to check if your climate is suitable for these flowers.
- Sunlight: Cardinal flowers prefer partial shade to full sun. Ensure the planting area receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Soil Conditions: They grow best in rich, moist soil. If your area has well-drained soil, consider amending it with organic matter to improve moisture retention.
- Maintenance: Cardinal flowers require regular watering, especially during dry spells. They may need staking to support their tall stems. Consider the maintenance level before adding them to your garden.
- Size: Cardinal flowers can grow quite tall, ranging from 2-5 feet. Ensure you have adequate space for them in your garden.
Cardinal Flower Varieties
- Lobelia cardinalis: The most common variety with bright red flowers and vibrant green foliage.
- Lobelia siphilitica: Also known as Great Blue Lobelia, it features striking blue flowers.
- Lobelia fulgens: This variety, commonly called Scarlet Lobelia, displays brilliant scarlet or orange-red flowers.
Where to Buy Cardinal Flowers
- Local Nurseries: Visit nearby nurseries or garden centers that specialize in native plants. They may have cardinal flowers available or can order them for you.
- Online Garden Retailers: Numerous online retailers offer a wide range of cardinal flowers. Ensure you choose a reputable seller with positive reviews.
- Plant Sales or Exchanges: Check for local plant sales, gardening events, or plant exchanges where you may find cardinal flowers at affordable prices.
- Seed Banks: Some seed banks and native plant societies provide cardinal flower seeds, allowing you to grow them from scratch.
Planting and Care Tips
- Timing: Plant cardinal flowers in early spring after the last frost or in fall before the ground freezes to allow them to establish well.
- Location: Choose a planting site with well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by removing weeds and growing organic matter to enhance moisture retention.
- Planting Depth: Dig a hole slightly deeper than the root ball and place the plant, ensuring the crown rests at soil level. Backfill with soil and gently press to eliminate air pockets.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Water deeply rather than lightly misting the plants.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, prevent weed growth, and protect the roots during winter.
- Fertilization: Cardinal flowers generally do not require heavy fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during their growth phase.
- Support: When cardinal flowers reach a height of more than 2-3 feet, they may need staking for support.
- Pruning: Remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain the health and appearance of the plants.
- Division: Over time, cardinal flowers can become crowded. Divide them every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain their vigor.
Frequently Asked Questions about 11 Incredible Cardinal Flower For 2024
While cardinal flowers prefer to be planted in the ground, they can be grown in containers as long as the containers are large enough to accommodate their size and maintain proper soil moisture. Ensure the containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Cardinal flowers require regular watering, especially during dry spells. They may also need staking to support their tall stems. Additionally, removing dead foliage and dividing overcrowded plants every few years will help maintain their overall health and appearance.
Cardinal flowers naturally attract hummingbirds with their vibrant red blooms. To further enhance their appeal, provide a hummingbird feeder nearby and ensure the planting area is rich in nectar-producing flowers.
Yes, cardinal flowers can be grown from seeds. To increase germination rates, stratify the seeds by storing them in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator for a few weeks before sowing. Sow the seeds in a seed-starting mix and keep them consistently moist until they germinate.
Cardinal flowers contain toxic compounds, including alkaloids, which can be harmful to both cats and dogs if ingested. It is advisable to keep pets away from these plants to avoid any potential health issues.
