Penstemon Blackbeard PP 30052
Penstemon ‘Blackbeard’ is another in the line of dark-foliaged Penstemon digitalis hybrids…a 2016 release from the Walters Gardens breeders. This cross of the North American native Penstemon digitalis and Penstemon calycosus has the darkest foliage on any such hybrid we’ve trialed. In spring, the new burgundy red foliage emerges from the 30″ tall, very sturdy, upright, burgundy stems. As the leaves mature, their color changes to dark black-purple. Starting in early May (NC), the stalks are topped with clusters of mauvy lavender tubes with a white interior, followed by clusters of small burgundy seed pods. Penstemon ‘Blackbeard’ is quite easy to grow in average to dry garden conditions.
