beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Minimum
Propagation:
Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 8
Flowers:
White Flowers
Sun:
Full sun Partial sun
Soil:
Loamy
Fruits:
red Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red') should be watered moderately once weekly or every other week. The soil should be given an inch or 2 of water each time to keep it evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. When planting in a dryer climate, it may require occasional deep watering. During dry and hot weather, the soil should be checked periodically to ensure that the plant is getting enough water. If the soil is dry to the touch, water can be applied more frequently. In hot climates, the plant should be watered in the morning or early evening to prevent evaporation.
sunlight
Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red') should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. These plants require about 4 to 6 hours of partial or filtered sunlight, and more shade if in direct sun during summer months. While sensitive to drought and heat if in too much sun, beardtongue requires some direct sun to bring out the colors in the foliage. It is best to provide the plant with morning sunlight up until around noon, when the plant should be shaded from the intense afternoon sun. In climates where temperatures vary widely in the summer months, it is best to keep the plant in a partially shaded location until temperatures are more mild.
pruning
Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red') should be pruned in early spring, after the last frost. Prune s by trimming off any dead wood and cutting back the plant to a height of about 12 inches (30 cm). This will promote bushier growth and improve the overall health of the plant by allowing new stems and leaves to form. Deadheading any spent flower stalks will also help to encourage new flower growth.
