Arabesque Red, Penstemon Seeds

Arabesque Red Penstemon Seed

Scarlet tubular blooms command attention from late spring onward
Dark green lance-shaped foliage creates handsome contrast
Sunny well-drained sites support resilient perennial growth
Flowers invite hummingbirds, bees, and bouquet cutting

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Key Attributes

Botanical Name

Penstemon hartwegii

Sun

Full Sun

Packet

10 Seeds

Zones 7–10 Check your growing zone

About Arabesque Red, Penstemon Seed, Penstemon Seed

Arabesque Red Penstemon flowers are a captivating variety known for their vibrant, deep red blooms that create a striking contrast against their dark green, lance-shaped foliage. The tubular flowers, characteristic of the Penstemon genus, are arranged in elegant spikes that rise above the plant, drawing the eye with their rich color and graceful form. These blooms are not only visually stunning but also attract hummingbirds and bees, making them a lively addition to any garden.

Growing details

Planting

Sow Depth

1/8"

Days to Germination

10–21 days

Germination Type

C30 - Cold Moist 30 Days

In-row plant spacing

18"

Plant profile

Life Cycle

Perennial

Hardiness Zone

Zones 7-10

Plant Height

30 inches

Growth Habits

Clumping, Upright

Seed & variety

Seeds Per Ounce

100,000

Color

Red

Seed Type

Open Pollinated

Before Planting

Penstemon needs sun, excellent drainage, and soil that is not excessively rich. Remove perennial weeds, loosen compacted ground, and keep compost additions modest. Prepare the seedbed before beginning about 30 days of cold-moist stratification.

Planting

Sow penstemon outdoors in fall or start indoors according to its germination requirement; many perennial species benefit from a cool period before warmth. Maintain even moisture during germination and provide bright light after emergence. Harden indoor-grown seedlings before planting outdoors. Transplant while young to minimize root disturbance, and thin direct sowings after sturdy true leaves develop.

Watering

Water penstemon regularly until established, then irrigate deeply only when the soil becomes dry. Avoid frequent shallow watering and saturated conditions, which encourage weak growth or root disease.

Fertilizer

Top-dress penstemon with compost or apply one balanced feeding in spring. Additional fertilizer is rarely needed unless growth is weak or a soil test identifies a deficiency.

Harvesting

Cut penstemon flowers when blooms are well colored and at the opening stage best suited to display. Harvest during the cool morning with clean shears, leaving healthy foliage for continued flowering.

Tips

Divide crowded penstemon clumps every few years to restore vigor. Deadhead for repeat bloom, or leave selected seed heads standing through winter to feed birds and provide structure.

Pests & Diseases

Penstemon may develop powdery mildew, rust, leaf spots, or crown rot. Most problems intensify in crowded or winter-wet sites. Remove infected stems, keep mulch away from crowns, and divide only healthy growth. Persistent basal collapse calls for improved drainage and a different planting location.

Penstemon can attract aphids, thrips, mites, Japanese beetles, slugs, and leaf-chewing caterpillars. Knock off small colonies with water, handpick larger feeders, and reserve labeled treatments for significant damage.