Lobelia x speciosa Starship Deep Rose (Cardinal Flower)

Perfect for moist locations, Lobelia x speciosa 'Starship Deep Rose' (Cardinal Flower) is a compact clump-forming herbaceous perennial with strictly upright black stems boasting long spires of two-lipped, deep rose pink flowers in midsummer to early fall. A magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, the eye-catching blossoms are borne atop a contrasting foliage of elongated dark green leaves. Adding vertical interest to the landscape, Starship Deep Rose is noted for its earlier flowering and better branching. Cardinal Flowers are excellent border plants for damp or wet locations.

• Grows up to 20-24 in. tall (50-60 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm).
• Performs best in deep, rich moisture-retentive soil in sun or partial shade. If enough moisture is available, it will thrive in the sun. In drier soils, it should be planted in part shade.
• A welcomed addition to beds and borders, containers, city gardens, coastal gardens, cottage gardens, bog gardens, rain gardens or near ponds or streams.
• Keep an eye out for slugs and crown rot. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Deadheading spent blooms will improve the overall appearance of the plant and may promote reblooming. Cut back after flowering.
• Propagate by division or by seed. Seed can be sown in very early spring. Seed may not come true to type.
• Ingestion may cause discomfort. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.