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Husker Red Penstemon

Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red'

American Beauties®
  • Award-Winning Husker Red Penstemon Features Maroon-Tinged Foliage that Deepens Throughout the Season
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-8
  • Grows 3 ft Tall, 2 ft Wide
  • Showy Pink, White Blooms From Late Spring to Early Summer
  • Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Butterflies and Hummingbirds
$3406
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Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Fall Color/Interest, Native, Attracts pollinators, Attracts Hummingbirds, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Container Friendly, Non-invasive
Hardiness Zone 3a8b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 3 ft
Width 2 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate Moderate
Growth Habit Upright
Plant Life Cycle Perennial
Blooms In Spring, Summer
Flower Color Pink, White
Foliage Color Red, Purple, Green
Native Yes
Suitable Space Outdoors
Botanical Name Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red'
Species digitalis
Cultivar Husker Red
Class Lamiales
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature height and spread of Husker Red Penstemon?
  • Husker Red Penstemon typically reaches 2-3 feet tall with a 12-18 inch spread, forming upright mounding clumps. The flower spikes extend above the foliage, creating dramatic vertical interest in zones 3-8. Plant 18-24 inches apart for proper air circulation and room to spread.

Does Husker Red Penstemon grow well in my zone (e.g., zone 3-8)?
  • Husker Red Penstemon thrives in USDA zones 3-8, making it suitable for most North American gardens. This hardy native perennial tolerates extreme conditions from roadside ditches to prairie meadows. Plant it in full sun for best flowering and foliage color development. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy, nursery-grown plants.

How much sun exposure does Husker Red Penstemon need for best foliage color?
  • Husker Red Penstemon develops its best dramatic maroon foliage color in full sun exposure. The intense sunlight enhances the purple overtones in the leaves and stems that give this plant its distinctive name. Plant in a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal coloration.

What type of soil is best for planting Husker Red Penstemon, and does it tolerate clay?
  • Husker Red Penstemon thrives in well-draining soil and tolerates clay as long as it doesn't stay waterlogged. This tough native adapts to poor soils and dry conditions, making it excellent for challenging sites. Plant in zones 3-8 with good drainage for best results.

Does Husker Red Penstemon require mulching, and what kind?
  • Husker Red Penstemon doesn't require mulching due to its exceptional drought tolerance and native hardiness in zones 3-8. However, a light layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture during establishment and keeps roots cool in summer heat. Shop at Nature Hills for this low-maintenance perennial.

How do I prune or cut back Husker Red Penstemon after flowering?
  • Cut spent flower spikes back to the base foliage after blooming ends in early summer to encourage potential second flush. You can also leave some seed heads for fall interest and wildlife. Trim the entire plant back by one-third in late fall or early spring.

When does Husker Red Penstemon bloom, and what color are the flowers?
  • Husker Red Penstemon blooms from spring through early summer with white to pale pink tubular flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The flower spikes emerge from glossy green foliage with maroon-tinged stems. Plant in full sun for best flowering performance in zones 3-8.

Is Husker Red Penstemon deer resistant or rabbit proof?
  • Husker Red Penstemon is generally deer resistant due to its native toughness and natural adaptations. Like most penstemons, deer typically avoid the foliage and flowers. For best results in zones 3-8, plant in sunny locations where its hardy nature will help it establish quickly and become less appealing to browsing animals.

What are the shipping times or seasons for Husker Red Penstemon?
  • Husker Red Penstemon ships during optimal planting seasons for perennials in zones 3-8. Spring shipping allows establishment before summer heat, while fall shipping works well in milder zones. Order early in your preferred season for best availability.

Is Husker Red Penstemon drought tolerant once established?
  • Yes, Husker Red Penstemon is very drought tolerant once established. This hardy native thrives in hot, dry sites and is perfect for xeriscaping in zones 3-8. Plant it in well-draining soil and water regularly the first season to establish strong roots.
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