Dark Towers Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Dark Towers'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Dark Towers is renowned for its tall, dark purple foliage and strong spikes of tubular flowers, making it a striking feature in any garden. This cultivar is particularly noted for its unique dark foliage which sets it apart from other Penstemon varieties.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
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 during propagation.
- Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
- Water young plants consistently, avoiding waterlogging for 6 weeks.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth and remove dead stems.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape ✂️
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds 🌱
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall, wait until after blooming ❌
- Refrain from using heavy or clay soil that retains water ❌
- Never neglect pest control when pests appear ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Dark Towers Penstemon questions
What zones can Dark Towers Penstemon grow in?
Dark Towers 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 Dark Towers Penstemon deer resistant?
Yes — Dark Towers Penstemon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Dark Towers Penstemon bloom?
Dark Towers Penstemon typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dark Towers Penstemon need full sun?
Dark Towers Penstemon does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Dark Towers Penstemon drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dark Towers 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'
Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
Red Foxglove Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Arabesque Red'
Blue Springs Penstemon
Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Springs'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Dark Towers 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.
