A popular herbaceous perennial lobelia cardinalis 39queen victoria39 has dramatic purple45black leaves and tall contrasting spikes of vibrant red flowers from late summer through to autumn preferring a damp spot in the garden cardinal flower is ideal for bringing late season colour to herbaceous borders and pond45side plantings and the flaming red colour adds an exotic touch to the garden lobelia cardinalis 39queen victoria39 has been awarded an rhs agm for its superb gard