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Penstemon 'Husker Red'
Penstemon 'Husker Red'

Penstemon 'Husker Red'

$12.95

Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red' is a striking native perennial with deep burgundy foliage and upright stems topped with white tubular flowers that often carry a soft pink blush. The dark foliage provides strong contrast in the garden while the early summer flowers bring a lively display of pollinator activity.

Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 12 - 24 in

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Light Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Average to dry well drained soil

Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established

Deer Resistance: Deer resistant

Native Status

Penstemon digitalis is native to the eastern and central United States and 'Husker Red' is a cultivated selection of this native species. It retains the adaptability and wildlife value of the species while offering distinctive burgundy foliage.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Hummingbirds

  • Attracts hummingbirds which are drawn to the tubular white flowers for their readily accessible nectar.

Butterflies

  • Provides nectar for butterflies including Painted Ladies and other early season species visiting the upright flower spikes.

Bees

  • Attracts native bees and bumblebees which gather nectar and pollen from the tubular flowers during the early summer bloom.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

  • Space 18 - 24 in apart to give each upright clump enough room to develop while creating a full planting over time.

Landscape Placement

  • Well suited to sunny borders, native plantings, cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, and naturalized areas where its burgundy foliage provides contrast throughout the season.

Companion Plants

  • Allium 'Medusa' (Ornamental Onion) - Adds rounded lavender pink flowers and unusual twisting foliage that contrasts with the upright form of Husker Red.
  • Baptisia australis (Blue False Indigo) - Brings blue flowers and substantial foliage that complement the dark stems and white blooms.
  • Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' (Catmint) - Creates a soft spreading edge with lavender flowers that complement the white penstemon blooms.
  • Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds upright grass texture and warm fall color while complementing the plant's native character.
  • Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Rough Goldenrod) - Extends the pollinator display later into the season with airy golden flower clusters.

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