Huskers Red Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'Husker Red'Huskers Red Beardtongue is an upright, long-lived perennial admired for its striking burgundy-red foliage and graceful spikes of tubular white flowers. New leaves emerge with deep reddish-purple tones in spring and mature to rich bronze-green while retaining attractive coloration throughout the growing season. In late spring to early summer, tall stems rise above the foliage, carrying abundant white blooms that often display a soft pink blush, creating an elegant contrast against the dark leaves. The flowers sway gently in the breeze and add height, texture, and movement to sunny garden beds.
Typically growing 3′ – 4′ (ft) tall with a spread of 2′ – 3′ (ft), Huskers Red Beardtongue develops a tidy clumping habit that works beautifully in perennial borders, prairie-inspired landscapes, and pollinator gardens. Its colorful foliage provides season-long interest even after flowering has finished, making it valuable as both a foliage and flowering plant. The sturdy flower stems are also excellent for fresh cut arrangements.
This cultivar performs best in full sun and well-drained soil but adapts readily to a variety of soil conditions. Once established, it demonstrates excellent tolerance to drought, heat, cold, and rocky soils, making it a dependable choice for low-maintenance landscapes. Removing spent flower stalks after blooming helps keep the plant looking tidy while allowing the attractive basal foliage to remain a feature throughout the season.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil.
Soil: Prefers Clay, Loam, or Sand soils.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Penstemon are drought-tolerant once mature.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed.
Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks after blooming and cut back old growth in late winter or early spring.
Spacing: Space 2′ – 3′ (ft) apart for mature growth.
Maintenance: Requires little routine care and benefits from occasional cleanup of spent stems to encourage healthy new growth.
The nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, honeybees, and other pollinators, providing an important food source in late spring and early summer. With its colorful foliage, elegant blooms, and durable nature, Huskers Red Beardtongue delivers lasting ornamental appeal and exceptional garden performance.
