Pensetmon Digitalis Husker Red, commonly known as Husker Red beardtongue, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the penstemon family, which contains over 250 species of flowering plants. This beautiful plant is prized for its stunning foliage and showy blooms that attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The Husker Red beardtongue grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet and has a spread of 1 to 2 feet. It has dark green to maroon foliage that turns deep red in the fall. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a glossy texture. The plant produces spikes of tubular flowers that are white with pink or lavender stripes. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and last for several weeks. The plant is a showstopper in the garden and is perfect for borders or as a focal point.
Care Guide
The Husker Red beardtongue is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 3 to 8. Here are some care tips to help your plant thrive:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to leggy growth.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent scorching.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Husker Red beardtongue is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If an infestation occurs, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Husker Red beardtongue is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and woodland edges. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is a favorite among gardeners and is commonly grown in home gardens and landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: When does the Husker Red beardtongue bloom?
A: The plant produces spikes of tubular flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Q: How tall does the Husker Red beardtongue grow?
A: The plant grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet.
Q: Is the Husker Red beardtongue easy to grow?
A: Yes, the plant is low-maintenance and easy to grow.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Husker Red beardtongue?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Penstemon ‘Dark Towers’: A cultivar with dark foliage and pink flowers.
- Penstemon ‘Hidcote Pink’: A cultivar with pink flowers that bloom in early summer.
- Penstemon ‘Raven’: A cultivar with deep purple flowers and dark foliage.
References
- “Penstemon digitalis ‘Husker Red’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280087.
- “Penstemon digitalis ‘Husker Red’.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/62636/.
- “Penstemon.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 21 Apr. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penstemon.
