Penstemon d. ‘Husker Red’ (4) 1-gallons

Description

Product Description

Penstemon digitalis ‘Husker Red’ (4) 1-gallons Common Name: Beardtongue (because sterile stamen has a tuft of small hairs). Zones 3 to 8. Full sun. Plants reach 30 to 34 inches tall and 15 to 18 inches wide. Growth rate: Moderate, erect herbaceous clump-forming perennial.

Maroon-red foliage with a dark green underlay distinguishes this Penstemon from the other cultivars. White flowers with a tinge of light pink are borne on strong, upright stems in early summer.

1996 Perennial Plant Association Plant of the Year

Penstemon digitalis ‘Husker Red’ is a beloved perennial known for its striking foliage and elegant white flowers. It is a versatile plant that adds vertical interest and attracts pollinators to gardens with its long-lasting blooms. Here is a closer look at what makes ‘Husker Red’ so special:

• Dramatic Foliage: ‘Husker Red’ emerges in spring with deep maroon-red foliage that gradually matures to a dark green with maroon undersides as the season progresses. This dramatic foliage provides a beautiful contrast to the flowers and adds interest to the garden even when not in bloom.
• Elegant White Flowers: In early summer, tall, strong stems rise above the foliage, bearing panicles of bell-shaped, white flowers, sometimes with a hint of light pink. The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators.
• Upright Habit: This penstemon typically grows 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, forming an upright, clump-forming perennial. Its strong stems hold the flowers upright, even in windy conditions.
• Adaptable and Hardy: ‘Husker Red’ thrives in a variety of conditions and is hardy in USDA zones 3-8. It tolerates heat, humidity, and even some drought, making it a reliable choice for different climates.
• Low Maintenance: This cultivar is relatively low-maintenance and does not require deadheading. It is also deer and rabbit resistant.

Growing Tips:

• Sunlight: Plant in full sun for the best foliage color and flowering. It can tolerate some light shade, but the foliage may be less vibrant.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but is adaptable to various soil types, including clay soils. Avoid overly wet or poorly drained conditions, which can lead to root rot.
• Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it has good drought tolerance.
• Maintenance: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance. You can also cut back the plant in late fall or early spring to tidy it up for the winter.

Design Ideas:

• Borders: Plant in groups or drifts to create a bold statement in borders and flower beds.
• Containers: Its upright habit makes it a good choice for container gardening, adding height and drama to patios and decks.
• Meadow Gardens: Combine with other native wildflowers and grasses for a naturalized look.
• Rain Gardens: Its tolerance for occasional flooding makes it suitable for rain gardens.
• Cut Flowers: The long-lasting blooms make excellent cut flowers for bouquets.

Penstemons are very drought tolerant perennials that are easy to grow in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil. Root rot can occur in wet, poorly drained soils. Soil fertility need only be average, but a light mulch in winter is recommended. Rarely bothered by insects or diseases.

When planted in mass, Penstemons make a tremendous color statement attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Attributes: flower borders, cut flowers and foliage, drought tolerant, mass plantings, salt tolerant and easy to grow.

(4) 1-gallon containers ready to plant, plants may be trimmed for shipping,

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