Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Red, yes, a truly red plant! There are not many true reds in Michigan, so this plant, especially en masse, is a sight to behold. Those beautiful red flowers attract hummingbirds and various Swallowtail butterflies. It is also the host plant to 6 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). Although the plants can be short-lived, it is a prolific self-seeder, so hopefully, you will be able to maintain a good colony. Bonus, this plant is deer resistant because of the toxic white latex in its leaves.
Photo credit: Swallowtail Garden Seeds
Red, yes, a truly red plant! There are not many true reds in Michigan, so this plant, especially en masse, is a sight to behold. Those beautiful red flowers attract hummingbirds and various Swallowtail butterflies. It is also the host plant to 6 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). Although the plants can be short-lived, it is a prolific self-seeder, so hopefully, you will be able to maintain a good colony. Bonus, this plant is deer resistant because of the toxic white latex in its leaves.
Photo credit: Swallowtail Garden Seeds
Red, yes, a truly red plant! There are not many true reds in Michigan, so this plant, especially en masse, is a sight to behold. Those beautiful red flowers attract hummingbirds and various Swallowtail butterflies. It is also the host plant to 6 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org). Although the plants can be short-lived, it is a prolific self-seeder, so hopefully, you will be able to maintain a good colony. Bonus, this plant is deer resistant because of the toxic white latex in its leaves.
Photo credit: Swallowtail Garden Seeds
Life Cycle: Short-Lived Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full, Partial
Soil Moisture: Wet, Medium-Wet
Height: 4 feet
Plant Spacing: 0.5-1.5 feet
Bloom Time: July-September
Bloom Color: Red
Advantages: Pollinator Favorite, Deer Resistant, Great Landscape Plant
Host Plant: 6 species of butterflies and moths in our area (nwf.org)
