Quick answer: Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is native to 37 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium-High water, Moist-Wet |
| Soil | Moist to wet, humus-rich soil - medium loam, clay loam, limestone-based, sandy, sandy loam, clay |
| Bloom | Bloom May-Oct |
| Height | Up to 6 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Nectar source for hummingbirds, attracts birds and butterflies |
All parts toxic only if eaten in large quantities. Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, exhaustion/weakness, pupil dilation, convulsions, coma. Toxic compounds: alkaloids lobelamine, lobeline, and others, plus volatile oil
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
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