Penstemon Red Riding Hood (Beardtongue)

Penstemon ‘Red Riding Hood’ is a captivating perennial known for its vibrant red tubular flowers and an upright, clumping habit. This hybrid variety is a garden jewel, boasting a profusion of blooms that create a visually striking display.

Penstemon Red Riding Hood: An In-depth Look

Native: While the genus Penstemon is largely native to North America, Red Riding Hood is a cultivated variety developed for specific ornamental traits, thus not native to a specific region.

Plant Type and Habit: This perennial showcases an upright, clumping growth habit. It forms mounds of foliage with flower spikes that extend upwards, presenting a showy, organized visual.

Size: Red Riding Hood achieves a moderate size, growing typically to about 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) in height and spreading approximately 18-24 inches (45-60 cm), making it suitable for mixed borders or as a stand-alone specimen.

Flowers: The hallmark of Red Riding Hood is its brilliant red, tubular flowers. These blooms are known for their hummingbird-attracting ability and are perfect for adding a bold color to gardens.

Bloom Time: The bloom period is relatively extended, beginning in early summer and continuing until fall.

Foliage: The foliage is a lush green, lanceolate in shape, and forms a neat mound which provides an excellent backdrop for the bright flowers.

Uses: Red Riding Hood is versatile; it’s used in borders, containers, pollinator gardens, and as a cut flower. Its vibrant color makes it a focal point in landscape design.

Pollinators: Penstemon is attractive to various pollinators, especially bees, and hummingbirds, drawn to their nectar-rich flowers.

Toxicity: Penstemons are not known to be toxic to humans or pets. However, it’s always prudent to prevent ingestion of any non-edible plants.

Deer and Rabbit: While no plant is entirely deer or rabbit-proof, Red Riding Hood is often less palatable to these critters compared to other garden plants.

Drought: Once established, Red Riding Hood is relatively drought-tolerant. However, regular watering will ensure the best flowering performance.

Penstemon Growing Tips

Light: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sun per day). Tolerates light shade.

Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial. Penstemons prefer rocky or sandy lean soils rather than rich garden loam. Avoid overly moist, poorly drained soils.

Water: Water well until plants are established. Once established, Penstemons tolerate some drought. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Over-watering or wet soils can lead to root rot.

Fertilizer: Penstemon plants generally do not require heavy fertilization and can thrive in relatively lean soil conditions. However, providing them with a light application of an organic fertilizer in the fall can help boost their growth and flowering potential.

Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Cut back plants in late autumn or early spring to promote vigorous growth.

Mulching: Mulching Penstemon can help regulate ground temperature and suppress weed growth. Choose a mulch that does not hold water. Use organic materials like shredded bark, compost, or pine straw. Avoiding direct contact with the stems to prevent rot and pest issues.

Propagation: Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer.

Pests and Diseases: No serious pest or disease issues, but watch for slugs, snails, and nematodes. Fungal diseases can occur in overly wet conditions; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent issues like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Rust can cause small, rust-colored pustules on leaves and stems, leading to defoliation and stunted growth.