Penstemon 'Blackbird'
Common name(s): beardtongue
Description: perennial; broad leaves on reddish stems and tubular burgundy-purple flowers from summer to first frost. Part of the "bird series" of garden penstemons bred and introduced in the 1960s by Ron Sidwell of Bredon Hill, Worcestershire (Other members include: P. 'Raven', P. 'Osprey', P. 'Flamingo', and P. 'Whitethroat').
Height: to 3 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.
Position: full sun and well-draining soil
Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators
Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below
Care: prune to 6 inches above the ground in spring (after all danger of last frost) to rejuvenate foliage. Adding a 1-2 inch layer of gravel around the base increases survivability and prevents crown rot. Cutting back spent blooms in summer will encourage more blooming but is not necessary. No fertilizer.