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Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'
Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'

Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle'

$11.95

Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle' is a striking native perennial with nearly black foliage that matures to deep burgundy and tall spikes of vivid red tubular flowers in summer. Its dramatic color contrast makes a strong statement in moist garden settings while providing exceptional wildlife value.

Height & Spread: 3 - 4 ft x 2 - 3 ft

Bloom Time: Mid to late summer

Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade

Soil Preference: Moist to wet rich soil

Watering Needs: Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist soil

Deer Resistance: Deer resistant

Native Status

This cultivated selection of Lobelia cardinalis is derived from a perennial native to much of the eastern and central United States. 'Black Truffle' retains the ecological value of the native species while offering unusually dark foliage as an ornamental feature.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Hummingbirds

  • Highly attractive to hummingbirds which are drawn to the vivid red tubular flowers and rely on them as a valuable late summer nectar source.

Butterflies

  • Attracts Swallowtails and other butterflies which visit the flowers for nectar throughout the summer bloom period.

Bees

  • Provides nectar for bumblebees and other native bees which visit the flowers alongside hummingbirds and butterflies.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

  • Space 24 - 36 in apart to give the tall upright stems room to develop while allowing the dark foliage to form a substantial clump.

Landscape Placement

  • Ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, moist borders, and woodland gardens where its dark foliage and vivid red flowers create a dramatic focal point.

Companion Plants

  • Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Adds bright orange flowers and strong butterfly appeal that contrasts beautifully with Black Truffle's dark foliage.
  • Monarda didyma (Bee Balm) - Brings vivid summer flowers and additional hummingbird activity to moist perennial plantings.
  • Carex stricta (Tussock Sedge) - Provides fine textured green foliage that complements the bold upright form and thrives in consistently moist conditions.
  • Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Adds complementary summer color and a long season of pollinator activity.
  • Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass) - Provides upright grass texture and a strong structural backdrop for the dark foliage and red flower spikes.

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