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Barton Arboretum and Nature Preserve

of Medford Leas

July 23, 2018 – Cardinal Flower

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) likes to grow in wet places, such as stream banks and swamps in rich soil. It is a beautiful red spike. The name is not for the bird, but for the vestments of Cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church. It is primarily pollinated by the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.

Cardinal Flower at Lumberton Meadow
Cardinal Flower