Cherry Sparks Penstemon
Penstemon x hybrida 'Cherry Sparks'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
22 inches
Width
20 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Cultivated hybrid
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Penstemon x hybrida 'Cherry Sparks' is a deciduous perennial with upright, branching stems and lance-shaped green foliage. It produces vibrant, tubular, cherry-red flowers that attract pollinators during summer. This cultivar is distinguished by its intense cherry-red flower color and its vigorous, long-lasting blooming period, making it a striking addition to borders and pollinator gardens.
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.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Mist cuttings to encourage root growth, keep soil moist.
- Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring.
- Mulch around plants 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 deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
- Allow weeds to compete with plants ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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
Cherry Sparks Penstemon questions
What zones can Cherry Sparks Penstemon grow in?
Cherry Sparks Penstemon is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Cherry Sparks Penstemon deer resistant?
Yes — Cherry Sparks Penstemon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Cherry Sparks Penstemon bloom?
Cherry Sparks Penstemon typically blooms in early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cherry Sparks Penstemon need full sun?
Cherry Sparks Penstemon does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cherry Sparks Penstemon drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cherry Sparks 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
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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
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Grow Cherry Sparks 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.
