Calling All Nebraskans

The common name for Penstemon is Beardtongue.  This is Penstemon "Husker Red" and from what I can gather, the University of Nebraska played a big part in developing the plant and, as such, named it after its own football team.  Well, I'm not much of a football fan, but I thank those Huskers because this plant has been a great performer in my container garden. 

First of all, the foliage is amazing--it's a deep burgundy.  So when the flowers fade, there's still something fantastic to admire.  The beautiful white blooms are produced on strong, upright stems which means no staking is necessary.  It's hardy to zone 5 although I've seen some accounts that its hardiness zone is 3.  It blooms from early to mid-summer and is attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.  It requires full sun for optimal performance.

This Husker is definitely a winner.

Bookshelf:  Container Gardening Books