Scarlet Beardtongue
Penstemon barbatus 'Coccineus'
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
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Penstemon barbatus 'Coccineus' is known for its tubular red flowers that attract hummingbirds and its sturdy, upright growth habit. This cultivar is particularly valued for its vibrant flower color and ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds just below the soil surface and water gently.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings after the last frost, typically in spring.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
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 spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don't neglect pruning dead or damaged stems
- Refrain from planting in heavy, poorly-drained soil
- Avoid excessive fertilization that can lead to leggy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Scarlet Beardtongue questions
What zones can Scarlet Beardtongue grow in?
Scarlet Beardtongue 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 Scarlet Beardtongue deer resistant?
Yes — Scarlet Beardtongue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Scarlet Beardtongue bloom?
Scarlet 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 Scarlet Beardtongue need full sun?
Scarlet Beardtongue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Scarlet Beardtongue drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Scarlet 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
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Scarlet 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.
