Definition

Noun: * A North American perennial herb with brilliant red flowers: Lobelia cardinalis is the scientific name for a species of flowering plant commonly known as cardinal flower. It is characterized by its tall spikes of vibrant red, tubular blossoms and typically grows in moist environments like stream banks and wetlands.

Usage

• The specific epithet "" refers to the bright red color of the flowers, resembling the robes of a Catholic cardinal.
• This term is used in botanical, horticultural, and ecological contexts to precisely identify this species.
• Example: " is an important nectar source for hummingbirds and butterflies."

Advanced Usage

• In botanical taxonomy, the full scientific name is often italicized, and the genus name () may be abbreviated after first use (e.g., ).

Variants and Related Words

• Cardinal flower: The common name for .
• Lobelia: The genus name, which includes many other species with different flower colors, such as (great blue lobelia).

Synonyms

• Cardinal flower
• Red lobelia

Different Meanings

• As a scientific binomial (genus + species), refers exclusively to this specific plant. It does not have other general meanings.

Noun

1. North American lobelia having brilliant red flowers