Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red' is a striking perennial valued for its deep burgundy foliage and tall spires of white flowers. Its bold color and upright habit offer great contrast to sunny gardens.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Adaptable to various soils but thrives in well drained conditions
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
A selected form of Penstemon digitalis, a species native to central and eastern North America, developed for ornamental use while maintaining ecological value.
Wildlife & Insects
Bees
- Attracts native bumblebees and sweat bees that are drawn to its tubular flowers for nectar.
Butterflies
- Visited by butterflies like Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and Red Admirals seeking nectar sources in early summer.
Hummingbirds
- Ruby Throated Hummingbirds often feed from the white flowers, attracted by the shape and nectar.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to showcase foliage and accommodate flower stalks without crowding.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for native plantings, pollinator gardens, sunny borders, or massing for foliage contrast and bloom height.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Provides sturdy blooms and midsummer color that complements the upright form of Penstemon.
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds movement and fine texture while thriving in similar dry, sunny conditions.
- Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Bright yellow flowers contrast beautifully with 'Husker Red's' dark foliage.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Brings fragrant, pollinator friendly blooms in lavender hues that echo Penstemon's upright habit.
- Salvia nemorosa (Woodland Sage) - Offers a base of cool colored spikes and extended bloom time to balance Penstemon's early floral display.