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Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red'

beard tongue

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Pink-tinted white, bell-shaped flowers are produced along tall spires from early to late summer. The young foliage adds a splash of colour too as it emerges maroon-red then fades to green. Like all beard tongues, Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red' is perfect for the middle of a sunny, mixed or herbaceous border. For the best results chose a well-drained site, since it strongly dislikes waterlogged winter soils.

How to care for Penstemon digitalis Husker Red:

Plant penstemons in well-drained soil in a sunny or lightly shaded position, incorporating compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility. Water regularly until established, then reduce watering, as they prefer drier conditions once settled.

Deadhead faded blooms frequently to extend the flowering season. In autumn, leave the top growth in place to provide winter protection, then cut back in spring when new shoots emerge lower down the stems.

Apply a dry mulch, such as bark or composted straw, around the base in colder regions to insulate the roots from frost. Every few years, lift and divide congested clumps in spring to maintain vigour and encourage fresh growth.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

  • InformationThis perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

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RH30001886
9cm pot
£8.99
In stock
(shipped within 4-6 working days)
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RH30001906
3 × 9cm pots
£19.99 £6.66 each
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(shipped within 4-6 working days)
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RH30006892
6 × 9cm pots
£36.99 £6.17 each
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