Cardinal flower

Lobelia cardinalis (cardinal flower) has toothed clump forming foliage and upright racemes of bright red tubular flowers with a wide three-lobed lip. The inflorescences attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Native Americans used the roots as a love potion to prevent quarrels, but the plant can be toxic if ingested in large doses. L. cardinalis performs best in rich, moist soil and will do well in woodland gardens or on the edge of stream banks. This plant is listed as exploitably vulnerable in the state of New York but can commonly be found in the nursery trade.