Filed under: Gardening, Flowers
Each week, bring a new bloom into your home and garden with our gardener's favorite floral find.
Lobelia cardinalis in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Photo: Marie Viljoen
Lobelia cardinalis, also known as Cardinal flowers, is a spectacular perennial that lures people and hummingbirds alike. Cardinal flowers are best planted in groups for a dramatic effect. A native of eastern North American wetlands and stream edges, this is one plant that demands a wet environment. Plant it in a low area that attracts runoff or make the most of a boggy, ill-drained area. Alternatively, you can also plant it in a container and obstruct the drainage holes to allow for less runoff. Hardy from USDA zones 3-9.