Definition

Noun: 1. A North American wildflower (Lobelia cardinalis), also commonly called cardinal flower, characterized by tall spikes of brilliant red flowers. 2. A tropical American annual vine (Ipomoea quamoclit), also commonly called cypress vine, characterized by delicate, finely divided leaves and red (or sometimes white) trumpet-shaped flowers.

Usage Notes

• This term is a common name for two distinct plant species from different botanical families. The specific plant being referred to is determined by regional context.
• In gardening and horticultural contexts, the scientific names ( or ) are often preferred to avoid confusion.

Examples

• The Indian pink growing by the stream attracted hummingbirds with its vivid color. (Referring to )
• She planted Indian pink to climb up the trellis, admiring its feathery foliage. (Referring to )

Advanced Usage

• The term can appear in botanical guides and regional wildflower literature under "common names."

Variants and Related Words

• Cardinal flower: The more widespread common name for .
• Cypress vine: The more widespread common name for .
• Star glory: Another common name for .

Synonyms

• For meaning 1 (): Cardinal flower, red lobelia.
• For meaning 2 (): Cypress vine, star glory, hummingbird vine.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Not applicable. This is a specific botanical term and is not used idiomatically.

Noun

1. North American lobelia having brilliant red flowers
2. tropical American annual climber having red (sometimes white) flowers and finely dissected leaves; naturalized in United States and elsewhere