(Beardtongue, Foxglove Penstemon)

Origin:  Native to Mexico, southwestern USA
Family:  Scrophulariaceae
Light:  Full sun/part shade
Height:  2-3'
Spacing:  1.5-2'
Blooms:  Prolific, white with tinge of pale pink, on strong red stems, early-late Summer
Foliage:  Showy, bronze-green
Soil:  Well-drained, mildly acidic, neutral, mildly alkaline, moist-dry, drought tolerant
Water:  Regular-low
Uses:  Foliage, butterfly garden, bird garden, hummingbird garden, cut flowers, mass plant, container
Propagation:  Seeds (Spring), softwood cuttings (Summer)
Insects/Disease:  Watch for mildew, leafspots, rust, slugs, snails

Comments:  Penstemon digitalis 'Husker's Red' or Beardtongue or Foxglove Penstemon is an erect perennial with a vigorous growth habit.  It is a native of Mexico and southwesten USA.  Penstemon digitalis 'Husker's Red' has showy bronze-red foliage appearing in Spring.  From early to late Summer, Beardtongue  pure white flowers with pale pink tinge appears on lovely reddish-purple 3' tall stems.  This is followed later by seeds in the Fall.  Hummingbirds, butterflies and bumblebees are magnetized by the nectar-rich flowers while songbirds enjoy feasting on the seeds in the Fall and Winter and help transport them.  Florists are delighted with the freshly cut flowers for bouquets.  Foxglove Penstemon is easily propagated from seeds in spring and cuttings in summer.  It thrives best in well-drained, acidic or alkaline soil in a humid, sunny or part shade environment.  The bronze foliage appears darker and lovelier when exposed in more sun.  Mass plant Penstemon digitalis 'Husker's Red' in the back of the border for a dazzling display.  Beardtongue stands out in combination planting.  It can also be container cultivated.  To prevent overcrowding, divide Foxglove Penstemon  in Spring.  It makes an excellent foliage plant in the absence of its blossoms.  Penstemon digitalis 'Husker's Red' is a terrific showstopper.
Interestingly, it was named the 1966 Plant of the Year by the Perennial Plant Association. 

USDA Zones:  2-8

Image of butterfly and hummingbird attractor, Penstemon digitalis 'Husker's Red' or Beardtongue or Foxglove Penstemon

Image above show blossoms of Penstemon digitalis 'Husker's Red'

Seeds/plant inquiries:  jen@JennysGarden.com