Lobelia cardinalis

Late summer comes alive with the brilliant red blooms of cardinal flower. The 1½-inch flowers grow in elongated clusters on three- to four-foot stalks. The native bloomer grows best in rich, moist soil, along stream banks and wet meadows. The tubular blossoms attract hummingbirds to collect cardinal flowers' nectar and pollinate the flowers. Humans should be more wary— although Native Americans made tea from the leaves and roots as a cure for stomachaches, fever, headaches, and a host of other maladies, the plant contains poisonous alkaloids, and can be fatal if ingested. While we can't say that cardinal flower will cure what ails you, it will certainly make your garden more attractive. Plant it in average soil with half-day sun.

Cool Link:

Cardinal Flower— Spectacular Scarlet Blossoms That Hummingbirds Adore - Folklore, history, and growing tips from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

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