Garden hybrid

Penstemon x hybridaPenstemon

8 other cultivars

perennial

Penstemon Quartz Red

Penstemon x hybrida 'Quartz Red'

The Story

Plant Bio

Penstemon x hybrida 'Quartz Red' is a perennial shrub with upright stems and lance-shaped green foliage, producing tubular, vibrant red flowers that attract pollinators throughout the summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking, deep red flowers with a hint of shimmer, and its vigorous growth habit makes it an excellent choice for border fronts and pollinator gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

The vibrant red flowers add striking color to garden borders and attract pollinators.

Drought tolerant, reducing water needs during dry seasons.

Supports native pollinators and beneficial insects.

SpeciesPenstemon x hybridaPenstemon

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

10 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Place in full sun for best flowering.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Prune after flowering to promote bushiness.
Mulch around base to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot during winter.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Prune dead flowers to encourage rebloom
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Overwater, especially in winter ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged
Neglect pruning after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Mulch
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower borderPollinator-friendly garden

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Coreopsis Echinacea Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Penstemon Quartz Red questions

What zones can Penstemon Quartz Red grow in?

Penstemon Quartz Red is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Penstemon Quartz Red deer resistant?

Yes — Penstemon Quartz Red is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Penstemon Quartz Red bloom?

Penstemon Quartz Red typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Penstemon Quartz Red need full sun?

Penstemon Quartz Red does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Penstemon Quartz Red drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Penstemon Quartz Red handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.