Penstemon Midnight Masquerade
Penstemon x hybrida 'Midnight Masquerade'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate to low once established
Humidity
Average garden humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Penstemon x hybrida 'Midnight Masquerade' is a perennial shrub known for its upright form, with lance-shaped leaves and striking tubular flowers that range from deep purple to nearly black, creating a dramatic floral display. This cultivar is distinguished by its intense dark-colored flowers that provide a bold contrast in garden beds and attract hummingbirds and pollinators, making it a standout choice for adding depth and interest.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
- Ensure full sun exposure for best flowering
- Water regularly during dry spells, especially first year
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for vibrant blooms
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
- Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Use organic fertilizer in spring
- Provide staking if needed for tall varieties
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Allow soil to stay soggy ❌
- Neglect deadheading blooms ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
- Ignore pest signs ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| 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 Midnight Masquerade questions
What zones can Penstemon Midnight Masquerade grow in?
Penstemon Midnight Masquerade is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Penstemon Midnight Masquerade deer resistant?
Yes — Penstemon Midnight Masquerade is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Penstemon Midnight Masquerade bloom?
Penstemon Midnight Masquerade 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 Penstemon Midnight Masquerade need full sun?
Penstemon Midnight Masquerade does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Penstemon Midnight Masquerade drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Penstemon Midnight Masquerade handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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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 Penstemon Midnight Masquerade 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.
