Cardinal flower
Cardinal flowers depend on hummingbirds for pollination.
Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is one of north Florida’s most stunning wildflowers. Its brilliant red flowers bloom in summer through fall. Dazzling clusters of tubular flowers top flower stalks 3-4 feet tall. An aquatic perennial, cardinal flower is found on streambanks and in spring runs and swamps, often in standing water. Cardinal flowers depend on hummingbirds for pollination. Although the flowers attract butterflies and bees, insects have trouble navigating the flowers. Thus, hummingbirds are the main pollinator. In Florida, cardinal flower is a threatened species. Park volunteers have struggled to establish this wildflower with purchased plants and sown seeds. The latest effort puts cardinal flowers in even wetter and shadier locations, hoping they return next year. Recently planted cardinal flowers are blooming now in the pond at Sopchoppy Depot Park.