Penstemon 'Rubicundus'

Penstemons produce foxglove-like flowers, which look fantastic in informal and cottage garden schemes, and are extremely attractive to bumblebees.

They thrive in full sun to partial shade, in moist but well-drained soil. Many varieties of penstemon are hardy in all but the harshest winters, but do move them under cover or take summer cuttings to ensure they last the winter.

Penstemon 'Rubicundus' is a dark-leaved variety, bearing large, crimson flowers with a prominent white throat, from July to August. It's ideal for growing in sunny borders, or in pots on the patio. Plants may need protection in colder regions. Apply a thick mulch of well-rotted manure or compost in autumn to protect the roots. Plants can be propagated by seed but they won't come true. For better results, divide your penstemons in spring.