Lobelia cardinalis has vibrant, red flower spikes with dark green foliage. Hummingbirds and butterflies love the plant. Needs a moist site and naturally found along streams, springs, and swamps. Clump forming.
Native Americans made a tea from the leaves of cardinal flower and used it for a variety of ailments including intestinal issues and lung problems.
For more information on this plant, visit the USDA PLANTS Database: http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=LOCA2