Species

13 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Husker Red Beardtongue

The Story

Plant Bio

A clump-forming perennial featuring maroon-red basal foliage and upright stems. In late spring to early summer, it bears panicles of white, two-lipped, tubular flowers.

Selected for its deep maroon-red foliage which provides season-long color, contrasting beautifully with its delicate white flowers. It was named the 1996 Perennial Plant of the Year.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright red foliage creates striking visual interest in gardens and borders.

Requires minimal watering once established, ideal for xeriscaping.

Supports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

SpeciesPenstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue

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

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Late summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water lightly until germination, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for best flowering results.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart after sprouting.
Fertilize with a balanced low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms
Apply a light layer of mulch annually
Divide clumps every 3–4 years for vigorous growth

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged ❌
Neglect deadheading 🌱

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

Vibrant border plantPollinator-friendly gardenDrought-tolerant rock garden accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Echinacea Gaillardia

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 late spring 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.