Garden hybrid

Penstemon x hybridaPenstemon

8 other cultivars

perennial

Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry

Penstemon x hybrida 'Cha Cha Cherry'

The Story

Plant Bio

Penstemon x hybrida 'Cha Cha Cherry' is a deciduous perennial with slender, upright stems and tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant cherry-red hues, complemented by narrow, lance-shaped foliage.

This cultivar is appreciated for its continuous, prolific flowering throughout summer and its ability to attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid red flowers attract hummingbirds and add vibrant color to borders.

Drought-tolerant and handles poor soil, reducing maintenance needs.

Supports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

SpeciesPenstemon x hybridaPenstemon

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or seedlings into well-drained soil in early spring
Water regularly until established, then reduce watering
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring for best vigor

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 shape the plant
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Avoid heavy clay soil without amendments
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Don’t fertilize excessively

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

Bright border with tubular red flowersWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Salvia EchinaceaLavender Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry questions

What zones can Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry grow in?

Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry 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 Cha Cha Cherry deer resistant?

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

When does Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry bloom?

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

Does Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry need full sun?

Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry drought tolerant?

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