
Penstemon Cha Cha Cherry
Penstemon x hybrida 'Cha Cha Cherry'
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
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:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
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
Companion Plants
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.
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