Penstemon 'Cherry Sparks' is a vivid red flowering perennial prized for its long blooming display of cherry red tubular blooms held on upright spikes above glossy green foliage. Compact and showy, a true magnet for hummingbirds!
Height & Spread: 15 - 18 in x 12 - 15 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Average to sandy, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low once established
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant
Native Status
This Penstemon is a garden hybrid derived from native species and offers significant wildlife value.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Frequent visits from Ruby Throated Hummingbirds seeking nectar from the tubular red blooms.
Bees
- Visited by bumblebees and digger bees, especially in the early part of the season.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 15 in apart to allow for dense blooming and airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Great for edging beds, planting in drifts for pollinator gardens, or mixing in hot color borders and containers.
Companion Plants
- Gaillardia aristata (Blanket Flower) - Matches bloom season and shares a preference for dry, sunny sites.
- Rudbeckia hirta (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers golden contrast and supports bees and butterflies.
- Liatris spicata (Blazing Star) - Adds vertical accent and pollinator support mid to late season.
- Agastache 'Kudos Red' - Brings spiky form and extra hummingbird appeal to red themed plantings.
- Salvia greggii - A heat loving, red blooming sage that complements Penstemon in dry gardens.