Penstemon - schmidel 'Red Riding Hood' / Bearded Tongue

Penstemon schmidel 'Red Riding Hood' is a beautiful and compact perennial that produces stunning, bright red tubular flowers from late spring to early summer.

Product Characteristics:
• Height: 30-40 cm (12-16 in)
• Spread: 30-45 cm (12-18 in)
• Flower color: Red
• Flowering period: Late spring to early summer
• Foliage: Green, lance-shaped leaves
• Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Well-draining, fertile soil
• Hardiness Zone: 5

Uses:
Penstemon schmidel 'Red Riding Hood' is perfect for adding color and texture to mixed borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens. It also works well as a cut flower.

Benefits:
This perennial is easy to grow and maintain, and its bright red flowers are highly attractive to bees and hummingbirds. It is also deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for low-maintenance landscapes.

Companion Plants:

1. Salvia nemorosa 'May Night' - This perennial features deep purple-blue flowers that contrast beautifully with the bright red blooms of 'Red Riding Hood'.
2. Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - The bright yellow flowers of 'Goldsturm' provide a striking contrast to the deep red of 'Red Riding Hood', making them an excellent pairing for a vibrant summer garden.
3. Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - The bright pink-purple flowers of 'Magnus' are an excellent complement to the bold red of 'Red Riding Hood', creating a stunning display when planted together.

Care Instructions:
Penstemon schmidel 'Red Riding Hood' prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water regularly during the growing season and deadhead spent flowers to promote prolonged blooming. Cut back the plant to the ground in the fall.

Final Thoughts:
Penstemon schmidel 'Red Riding Hood' is a charming and versatile perennial that adds vibrant color to any garden. With its low-maintenance requirements and attractive features, it is a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.