Black Truffle Cardinal Flower

Black Truffle is a cardinal flower selection with nearly black new foliage that matures to glossy maroon and bright red flower spikes. Plants Nouveau identifies native plantsman Peter Heus as the selection’s breeder; its page lists the plant as Lobelia cardinalis ‘Black Truffle’ PP25687. ## Garden profile The introducer describes an upright, bushy perennial with foliage from May until hard frost and red blooms in August and September. Hummingbirds and butterflies visit the flowers. The listed height is 3–4 feet, with a 2–3 foot spread, and the plant is rated for USDA Zones 3–8. ## Growing conditions Plants Nouveau recommends full sun, average garden soil, and average to moist conditions. Cardinal flower is a useful choice for a consistently moist garden area; avoid letting the soil dry for extended periods. ## Maintenance Leave space for the clump to develop, and cut back old stems after flowering or in spring as new growth begins. [Plants Nouveau: Lobelia Black Truffle](https://www.plantsnouveau.com/plants/perennials/lobelia-black-truffle).