perennial RHS AwardN. America Native

George Home Penstemon

Penstemon digitalis 'George Home'

The Story

Plant Bio

A perennial plant known for its tall spikes of tubular flowers and attractive foliage.

This cultivar is appreciated for its abundant white flowers and tolerance to various soil types.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesPenstemon digitalis provides vibrant purple flowers that attract pollinators, adding color and life to sunny garden beds.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it a low-maintenance choice for water-wise gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
SpeciesPenstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
  3. Plant in full sun to encourage vibrant flowering and healthy growth.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry spells to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
  6. Divide established plants in early spring or fall to rejuvenate and propagate.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to encourage new growth
  • Use organic mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Apply compost in spring for healthy soil

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t fertilize late in the season
  • Avoid heavy clay soils without amendment
  • Do not neglect pruning after blooms

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid perennial borderColorful rock garden accentWildflower meadow edge

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

George Home Penstemon questions

What zones can George Home Penstemon grow in?

George Home Penstemon is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is George Home Penstemon deer resistant?

Yes — George Home Penstemon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does George Home Penstemon bloom?

George Home Penstemon typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does George Home Penstemon need full sun?

George Home Penstemon does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is George Home Penstemon drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), George Home Penstemon handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow George Home Penstemon with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.