Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a short-lived perennial and a member of the bell flower family (Campanulaceae). The plant gets its name from the red robes worn by Cardinals in the Catholic Church.

Red cardinal flowers were important to the Iroquois, Meskwaki, and Pawnee tribes. The root, after being boiled would be used for fever sores. The mashed parts of the plant could be used for cramps as well as to induce vomiting after eating something rotten or bad. It is also ceremonial tobacco for the Meskwaki. The Pawnee used the roots and flowers for a love charm. A gorgeous plant overall for medicinal and magical uses.