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Cardinal flowers (Lobelia cardinalis) are stunning perennial plants known for their vibrant red blooms that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. Growing them from seed can be a rewarding experience, allowing gardeners to enjoy a variety of beautiful cultivars. Here are the top ten cardinal flower varieties to consider planting from seed for a splash of fiery color in your garden.
1. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Queen Victoria’
This cultivar is prized for its deep crimson-red flowers and vigorous growth. It produces tall, striking spikes that add drama to borders and wet areas. Starting from seed, it requires patience but rewards with abundant blooms.
2. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Starship Scarlet’
Known for its compact size and bright red flowers, ‘Starship Scarlet’ is perfect for smaller gardens or container planting. It germinates well from seed and blooms early in the season.
3. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Black Truffle’
This variety features dark, nearly black foliage with vibrant red flowers. It creates a striking contrast in garden beds and is a unique choice for gardeners seeking unusual color combinations. Seeds should be started indoors for best results.
4. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Dwarf Scarlet’
A shorter variety that reaches only about 12 inches tall, making it ideal for edging or rock gardens. It produces bright red blooms from seed with proper care and provides a splash of color without overwhelming other plants.
5. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Vermilionaire’
This cultivar boasts large, vibrant vermilion-red flowers and is highly attractive to hummingbirds. It is a reliable seed starter and blooms profusely in suitable conditions.
6. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Alba’
An elegant white-flowered variety, ‘Alba’ offers a soft contrast to the traditional red. Growing from seed, it requires similar conditions but provides a different aesthetic for mixed borders.
7. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Fireworks’
This variety features fiery red flowers with a hint of orange, creating a dynamic display. It is a popular choice for naturalized gardens and is easily propagated from seed.
8. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Pink Sensation’
Although less common, this cultivar produces stunning pink flowers that add variety to garden palettes. It germinates well from seed and prefers moist, rich soil.
9. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Scarlet Flame’
With its intense scarlet-red flowers, ‘Scarlet Flame’ is a showstopper. It thrives in wet areas and is ideal for planting near ponds or streams. Seeds should be started indoors for early blooms.
10. Lobelia cardinalis ‘Autumn Fire’
This variety features a blend of red and orange hues, mimicking autumn colors. It adds warmth to garden beds and is best grown from seed in the early spring.
Growing Tips for Cardinal Flower Seeds
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.
- Use a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Maintain temperatures around 65-70°F for germination.
- Provide bright, indirect light during seedling development.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
- Plant in moist, rich soil with good drainage.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
Growing cardinal flower varieties from seed allows gardeners to enjoy a diverse palette of colors and forms. With proper care, these plants will provide vibrant blooms that attract hummingbirds and pollinators season after season.