Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)

I loved the discovery made by my son of this beautiful red Cardinal Flower. They are growing in a stream that flows into the creek . This stream could probably be seen from our backyard if there weren't so many trees to obstruct the view. It's at a distance but not far from here. Cardinal Flower is native to much of the United States and some of Canada. It also can be found in Mexico, Central America to northern Columbia. The Cardinal Flower attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. It's a good plant for wetlands and very moist areas. The flower colors can also be pink and white. The plant was considered medicinal by the North American Indians and teas from the roots were used for various conditions. WARNING it does contain poisonous alkaloids and all parts are considered to be poisonous. The toxicity is said to occur from large quantities though. The red Cardinal Flower is yet another discovery that I knew nothing of but had probably been near here quite some time. Look around and see God's creation near you . 

Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal Flower, Scarlet Lobelia - (Lobelia cardinalis)