Species
Penstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue12 other cultivars
‘George Home’George Home Penstemon
‘Blackbeard’Blackbeard Beardtongue
‘Dark Towers’Dark Towers Penstemon
‘Arabesque Red’Red Foxglove Penstemon
‘Aurora’Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue
‘Kissin' Kuzins’Kissin' Kuzins Beardtongue
‘Stapleford Gem’Stapleford Gem Beardtongue
‘Pink Skyrocket’Pink Skyrocket Beardtongue
‘Apple Blossom’Apple Blossom Beardtongue
‘Hidcote Pink’Hidcote Pink Beardtongue
‘Dakota Burgundy’Dakota Burgundy Beardtongue
‘Firebird’Firebird Beardtongue
The Story
Plant Bio
Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red' is known for its striking tubular flowers and attractive burgundy foliage.
This cultivar is particularly valued for its ability to thrive in various soil types and its long blooming period.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 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
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Plant outdoors after the last frost, spacing 12-18 inches apart.
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells to promote healthy growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage blooming.
- Divide mature plants in early spring or fall to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant, healthy plants.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to encourage new growth
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't fertilize late in the season to avoid leggy growth
- Refrain from disturbing roots during flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Husker Red Beardtongue questions
What zones can Husker Red Beardtongue grow in?
Husker Red Beardtongue 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 Husker Red Beardtongue deer resistant?
Yes — Husker Red Beardtongue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Husker Red Beardtongue bloom?
Husker Red Beardtongue typically blooms in 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 Husker Red Beardtongue need full sun?
Husker Red Beardtongue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Husker Red Beardtongue drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Husker Red Beardtongue handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Penstemon to compare
Beardtongue Rondo
Penstemon barbatus 'Rondo'
George Home Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'George Home'
Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
Blackbeard Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard'
Blue Springs Penstemon
Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Springs'
Dark Towers Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Dark Towers'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Husker Red Beardtongue 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.