cardinal flower
noun
: a North American lobelia (Lobelia cardinalis) that bears a spike of brilliant red flowers
Examples of cardinal flower in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
For example, put impatiens, cardinal flowers (Lobelia cardinalis), astilbe, and other moisture-loving plants in one spot.
—
Steve Bender, Southern Living, 29 Apr. 2026
Thomas recommended adding Iowa native plants to your backyard, like cardinal flowers or bergamot.
—Lucia Cheng, Des Moines Register, 2 Apr. 2026
While perennial lobelias, like the cardinal flower, benefit from deadheading, annual lobelias naturally drop their petals after blooming.
—Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Mar. 2026
The striking red cardinal flower is one that is primarily pollinated by hummingbirds, for example.
—Claire Therese Hemingway, The Conversation, 18 Aug. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Steve Bender, Southern Living, 29 Apr. 2026
Thomas recommended adding Iowa native plants to your backyard, like cardinal flowers or bergamot.
—Lucia Cheng, Des Moines Register, 2 Apr. 2026
While perennial lobelias, like the cardinal flower, benefit from deadheading, annual lobelias naturally drop their petals after blooming.
—Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 Mar. 2026
The striking red cardinal flower is one that is primarily pollinated by hummingbirds, for example.
—Claire Therese Hemingway, The Conversation, 18 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Cardinal flower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cardinal%20flower. Accessed 5 May. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
