Answer: Cardinal flower is a perennial that is not suited to every home landscape. It is very striking with its brilliant red flowers. It is a late summer flower.

Cardinal flower prefers to grow in partial shade. Full sun can be tolerated in really good soil or in the cooler valleys of Eastern Kentucky. It does reproduce itself from seed, and hummingbirds love this flower.

If you do decide to try this beautiful flower, plant nursery-grown plants in the early spring. Morning sun with later-day shade is best. A good loamy soil enhanced by good humus or compost will make your site much better.

The cardinal flower prefers moist soil. Water regularly and start with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.

If you can’t get this one to grow in the landscape, roam the creek banks of Eastern Kentucky in August for a great show.

source : www.kentucky.com