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Lobelia cardinalis Black Truffle

Looks like a perennial coleus for the garden.

Never, has a true, native cardinal flower been available with such deep, dark foliage and bright red flowers.  The combination is stunning! We are happy to be working with native plantsman, extraordinaire, Peter Heus from West Virginia on this exciting new introduction.  Black Truffle was selected for its nearly black foliage and bushy, upright habit.  It's a hummingbird magnet and so much more.  If you've ever dreamed of a perennial coleus - this plants is your dream come true. The foliage emerges nearly black with an oil-slick looking sheen to it.  As the summer months go on and the heat turns up, the foliage turns shiny maroon and stays that way until the cardinal red flowers appear.  The foliage lasts from May to a hard frost and will give you months of enjoyment as the hummingbirds and butterflies frequent it often.

Who Am I?

  • Common Name:
    Black Truffle cardinal flower
  • Botanical Name:
    Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle' PP25687
  • Type:
    Perennial
  • U.S. Native:
    YES

Cultural Details

TYPE

Perennial

U.S. NATIVE

YES
  • Light:
    Full sun
  • Soil:
    Average garden soil
  • Moisture:
    Average to moist
  • Hardiness Zone
    3-8
  • Bloom Time:
    August-September
  • Bloom Color:
    Red
  • Size:
    3-4' tall by 2-3' wide
  • Diseases & Pests:
    None known

What Makes Me Special?

Ever dream of a perennial coleus? We have your answer. Black Truffle is a truly native, hummingbird magnet with nearly black new foliage that fades to a deep, iridescent maroon as the plant matures. A healthy, bushy, upright selection with bright cardinal red flowers.

Landscape Use

Borders, rain gardens, hummingbird gardens, foundations, naturalistic plantings, mass plantings

Propagation

Tissue Culture
URC

Who Am I?

  • Common Name:
    Black Truffle cardinal flower
  • Botanical Name:
    Lobelia cardinalis 'Black Truffle' PP25687
  • Type:
    Perennial
  • U.S. Native:
    YES

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