Lobelia cardinalis — Trailing, Bushy

Overview

Lobelia cardinalis is a plant with a trailing, bushy habit in the genus Lobelia, part of the Campanulaceae family, with green foliage. Lobelia cardinalis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include borders, containers and hanging baskets.

About

Lobelia cardinalis, the cardinal flower, is a species of flowering plant in the bellflower family Campanulaceae native to the Americas, from southeastern Canada south through the eastern and southwestern United States, Mexico and Central America to northern Colombia.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lobelia cardinalis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lobelia

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Loam, Sand, Chalk
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H2

Plant details

Lobelia cardinalis size, habit and characteristics

Habit: Trailing, Bushy
Foliage: Green
Suggested uses: Borders, Containers, Hanging baskets

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lobelia cardinalis

Propagation: Seeds, Cuttings
Pest resistance: Aphids, Slugs, Snails
Disease resistance: Root rot

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Lobelia cardinalis?

Lobelia cardinalis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Lobelia cardinalis need?

Lobelia cardinalis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sand and chalk. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Lobelia cardinalis hardy in the UK?

Lobelia cardinalis has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.

How do I propagate Lobelia cardinalis?

Seeds, Cuttings.

More in the Lobelia genus

Browse all Lobelia →