PERENNIALS & GROUND COVERS

I scream, you scream, we all scream for Ice Cream Penstemon.

Penstemon, a native of the west coast of the Americas, has been found growing in mountains, deserts, forests, and on the plains. While it is sometimes difficult to grow the native species in your home garden, it is a “piece of cake” to grow any of the vast number of hybrids.

Currently, we have a great selection of these brightly blooming perennials on our shelves. Choose from deep burgundy ‘Blackbird’, rich ‘Purple Passion’, and vivid ‘Sunburst Ruby’, just to name a handful of the hybrids on-hand. We are also carrying the delicious-sounding Ice Cream series (‘Bubble Gum’, ‘Juicy Grape’, above, and ‘Meltin’ Candy’), as well as the popular and unique ‘Husker Red’, which has attractive bronzy foliage and pinkish white flowers.

In general, Penstemon can be planted in either full or partial sun. Good drainage is a must. Some varieties are really low-maintenance, preferring neither fertilizer nor winter mulching. (Check your plant’s tag for individual needs.) Penstemon can be used in containers, providing a colorful focalpoint, or in beds - mix them with other perennials or plant them en masse. You can expect your plants to bloom well into fall. Just be sure to cut back the spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Oh, and get ready for the hummingbirds - they simply love Penstemon!

Dividing Perennials

Peerless Perennials

New Ferns for Woodland Gardens

Fertilizing Perennials

Cutting Back for Winter

The Best Time to Buy Perennials

2007 Plant Lists

Perennials

Organic Gardening

More . . .