Description Stunning spikes of scarlet, five-petalled flowers rise up in late summer among beautiful, beetroot-coloured foliage. This gorgeous cardinal flower brings a splash of vibrant colour to the garden just as many perennials are fading. A wonderful plant for filling gaps left by early-flowering perennials. Plant Care This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring. Position: full sun or partial shade Soil: deep, fertile, moist soil Flowering period: August to October Hardiness: fully hardy Protect the crown of the plant during winter with a thick, dry mulch. This plant loves moisture so can also be grown at the edges of a pond, and will tolerate water levels up to 30cm deep if potted up into a basket with aquatic compost. Eventual Height & Spread Height: 90cm Spread: 30cm