Phoenix Penstemon growing guide

Phoenix Penstemon

Botanical Name: Phoenix, ‘Firebird’: Penstemon hartwegii. ‘Garnet’, ‘Purple Passion’, ‘Sour Grapes’, ‘Swan Lake’: P. hybrid.
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Plant Type: Semi Evergreen perennial
Size (HxW): Phoenix, ‘Garnet’: 30-70cm x 30-60cm. 'Purple Passion', 'Swan Lake': 50-90cm x 30-60cm. 'Sour Grapes': 50-70cm x 40-50cm.
Depth & Spacing: Plant to the same depth as in the pot. Space 30-50cm apart.
Soil: Moderately fertile to humus rich, moist, well drained soil is ideal. They can rot if left to sit in water, so like their soil on the drier side. In pots, potting mix is perfectly drained so it’s hard to over water.
Aspect: Full sun to part shade
Climate: Cool to Mediterranean
Frost: Fully hardy
Water: Water well to establish, then only if rainfall is low. Dry tolerant once established.
Fertiliser: A light application in spring is ideal, they aren’t heavy feeders.
Flowering Time: Spring to autumn
After Flower Care: Dead head regularly during the bloom season to promote more blooms. It is a good idea to prune them back to 30-40cm above the woody base winter/early spring to promote healthy growth. When the new ones begin to bloom you can cut the old to the ground.
Notes: It is a good idea to protect new growth from slugs and snails. Dig and divide in spring as required. Suitable for pots or cutting. They may take a season to settle in and flower at their best.

Phoenix Penstemon