Rich Ruby Beardtongue
Penstemon barbatus 'Rich Ruby'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Rich Ruby is known for its striking red tubular flowers and robust growth habit. This cultivar has one of the richest colors among Penstemon barbatus cultivars.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 4 inches tall into full sun locations.
- Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
- Divide mature plants in early spring to promote healthy growth.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and full sun exposure for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply but infrequently to prevent root rot 🌱
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth
- Apply organic compost annually for nutrients
- Monitor regularly for pests and diseases
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause fungal issues ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall to protect winter interest
- Refrain from planting in poorly drained soil
- Don’t neglect mulching to retain soil moisture
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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
Rich Ruby Beardtongue questions
What zones can Rich Ruby Beardtongue grow in?
Rich Ruby Beardtongue is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Rich Ruby Beardtongue deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Rich Ruby Beardtongue, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Rich Ruby Beardtongue bloom?
Rich Ruby Beardtongue typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Rich Ruby Beardtongue need full sun?
Rich Ruby Beardtongue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Rich Ruby Beardtongue drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rich Ruby Beardtongue handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Penstemon to compare
Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'George Home'
Beardtongue Rondo
Penstemon barbatus 'Rondo'
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 Rich Ruby Beardtongue 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.
