Cardinal flowers can be propagated by seed, division, or stem cuttings

Seed propagation

  1. Collect the brown seed capsules in the fall. 
  2. Place the capsules in a paper bag and shake to release the seeds. 
  3. Store the seeds in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a couple of months. 
  4. Sow the seeds thinly in a flat with a damp, fine peat mix. 
  5. Keep the flats moist and under lights or in a greenhouse. 
  6. Transplant seedlings into individual pots after 4 to 6 weeks. 

Division propagation 

  1. Dig up the entire colony in the fall.
  2. Cut the colony into sections.
  3. Replant each section 12 inches apart.

Stem cutting propagation 

  1. Take cuttings that are between 4 and 6 inches in length with two nodes before the flowers open.
  2. Remove the lower leaf and half of the upper leaf.
  3. Dip cuttings in a rooting hormone.
  4. Place cuttings in a 50 sand:50 perlite (v/v) media.
  5. Water lightly and keep moist.

Cardinal flowers are short-lived perennials that self-sow easily. They are easy to grow and prefer moist soils in full sun to partial shade.