Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ belongs to the Plantaginaceae family, commonly known as the plantain family. It is a semi-evergreen perennial that delights with its vibrant blooms from mid-summer through autumn.
Also referred to as Beard Tongue or Beardtongue ‘Rich Ruby’, this Penstemon variety reaches a height of approximately 3 feet or 90 centimeters. Its narrow green foliage emerges from purplish stems, creating an attractive contrast. The bell-shaped flowers of Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ are a striking deep red, adding a bold splash of color to the garden.
To successfully grow Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’, follow these guidelines:
Sun and Soil Requirements: Plant Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ in a location that receives full sun or partial shade. Ensure the soil is humus-rich, fertile, and well-drained. Penstemon thrives in soil that provides good drainage, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.
Cold Protection: Provide protection for Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ during the colder months, especially in regions with harsh winters. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures.
Watering and Fertilization: Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ is not particularly demanding when it comes to water and fertilizers. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require excessive watering. Avoid damp or wet conditions that could lead to root rot. Fertilize sparingly, as excessive fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Propagation: Propagate Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ through division or softwood cuttings. Dividing the plant in early spring or late autumn allows you to create new plants from existing clumps. Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer can also be used to propagate this variety.
Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead the faded flowers of Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’. Removing spent blooms redirects the plant’s energy towards producing new flowers, prolonging the overall flowering period.
Pest and Disease: While Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ is generally resistant to deer and rabbits, it may be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for issues such as downy mildew, slugs, snails, and eelworms. Proper garden hygiene, such as removing plant debris and providing adequate air circulation, can help minimize the risk of these problems.
Wildlife Attraction: Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ is known to attract butterflies and hummingbirds with its vibrant flowers. Its nectar-rich blooms serve as a valuable food source for these pollinators, adding liveliness to the garden.
By following these cultivation guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of Penstemon ‘Rich Ruby’ and its richly colored flowers for an extended period while providing a welcoming habitat for pollinators.
