Species
Penstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue12 other cultivars
‘George Home’George Home Penstemon
‘Blackbeard’Blackbeard Beardtongue
‘Dark Towers’Dark Towers Penstemon
‘Aurora’Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue
‘Kissin' Kuzins’Kissin' Kuzins Beardtongue
‘Husker Red’Husker Red 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
Arabesque Red features tall, sturdy spikes of tubular red flowers that attract pollinators.
This cultivar is known for its vibrant red coloration and exceptional drought tolerance.
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
Low to moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are sturdy and have developed several leaves.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during active growth.
- Prune after flowering to promote bushier growth and more blooms.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply organic compost annually for healthy growth
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t disturb roots during the flowering season
- Refrain from fertilizing with high nitrogen in late fall
- Avoid planting in poorly-drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
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
Red Foxglove Penstemon questions
What zones can Red Foxglove Penstemon grow in?
Red Foxglove 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 Red Foxglove Penstemon deer resistant?
Yes — Red Foxglove Penstemon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Foxglove Penstemon bloom?
Red Foxglove Penstemon typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Foxglove Penstemon need full sun?
Red Foxglove Penstemon does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Foxglove Penstemon drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Foxglove 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
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 Red Foxglove 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.