Growing Conditions: Sun to part shade in moist to medium soil
Size: Height 2-3 ft, Spread 1-2 ft
Blooms: Mid-July to September
Landscape Use: Pond edge, rain garden, naturalized area. Note – Although this plant reseeds, the plant itself can be short lived, 2 to 4 years.
Habitat Value: Supports various host insects, including the greater black-letter dart (Xestia dolosa) and the pink-washed looper moth (Enigmogramma basigera). The ruby-throated hummingbird frequents L. cardinalis for its nectar source, in turn serving as its major pollinator.
Pests & Diseases: Minor issues include slugs and snails.
Mature Seed Color: Dark red/light brown
Collect seeds from September to November when pods are brown and withered and the seeds are easily released when the pod is tipped down.
Collection & Cleaning Tips: Since the seeds are very small, use small brown paper envelope bags to collect pods. Empty pods and separate seeds from debris with cleaning screens.
Store clean, dry seeds in a refrigerator (40°F) in a sealed glassine envelope.
Germination Requirements: These seeds can be sown at anytime. Plant on the surface of moist soil. Seeds need light to germinate.
