Red Hot Penstemon
Penstemon x gloxinioides 'Red Hot Kissed'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Cultivated hybrid
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Attractive spikes of tubular flowers that are beloved by pollinators. The cultivar 'Red Hot Kissed' features vibrant red flowers with a unique bi-color effect.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water gently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during germination.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 2 inches tall into full sun areas.
- Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Prune back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant, long-lasting blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Prune to shape and promote flowering ✂️
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly in growing season
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize in late fall or winter
- Refrain from heavy pruning during dormancy
- Avoid planting in shady areas
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Hot Penstemon questions
What zones can Red Hot Penstemon grow in?
Red Hot Penstemon is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Hot Penstemon deer resistant?
Yes — Red Hot Penstemon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Hot Penstemon bloom?
Red Hot Penstemon typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Hot Penstemon need full sun?
Red Hot Penstemon does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Hot Penstemon drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Hot Penstemon handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Penstemon to compare
Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'George Home'
Beardtongue Rondo
Penstemon barbatus 'Rondo'
Blackbeard Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard'
Dark Towers Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Dark Towers'
Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
Red Foxglove Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Arabesque Red'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red Hot 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.
