Penstemon King George V Beard Tongue - 1L Pot - 2 Pack
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Carbeth PlantsCarbeth Plants Red/White Penstemon King George V 'Beard Tongue'
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Full details
The Penstemon King George V is an ideal choice for gardeners looking for reliable, high-impact summer color in borders or containers. Perfect for both novice and experienced growers, this hardy perennial offers a long-lasting display of vivid red, bell-shaped flowers that attract essential pollinators to the garden. While it is remarkably low-maintenance, it does require well-drained soil to thrive and perform at its best throughout the growing season.
All features
| Model Part Number | PENKINGGEO1L-2 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Carbeth Plants |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Can I grow Penstemon in a pot?
Yes, they perform excellently in large containers provided the pot has good drainage holes and you use a high-quality, free-draining potting compost.
Does it need regular feeding?
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring is sufficient to support healthy growth and flowering.
Is it deer resistant?
While no plant is completely deer-proof, Penstemons are generally not a preferred food source for deer.
How often should I water it?
Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, but containers will need more frequent watering during hot summer spells.
When is the best time to plant?
Spring or early autumn are the ideal times to plant to allow the roots to establish before extreme heat or cold sets in.
Are they truly perennial?
Yes, they are perennial, though in very cold climates, they may behave as short-lived perennials and benefit from winter protection.
Troubleshooting
Flowers are not appearing
Ensure the plant is receiving at least 6 hours of sunlight and that it has not been over-fertilized with high-nitrogen feed.
Plant looks wilted or yellow
This is often a sign of waterlogged soil. Check your drainage immediately and move the plant to a drier spot if necessary.
Leggy or sparse growth
Prune back the stems by a third to encourage bushier, more compact growth and side-branching.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High visual impact with vibrant red blooms
- Encourages biodiversity by attracting pollinators
- Suitable for both containers and garden beds
- Requires very little ongoing maintenance
- Hardy plant that establishes well in most gardens
Cons
- Requires well-drained soil to prevent root issues
- Does not tolerate waterlogged winter conditions
- Needs protection from extremely harsh winter frosts
Setup, Compatibility & Care
To ensure your Penstemon thrives, select a location that receives full sun or light dappled shade. When planting, incorporate grit or perlite into the soil if you have heavy clay, as the primary requirement is excellent drainage.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice the size of the 1L pot and ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and keep moist during the first growing season while the root system establishes.
- Pruning: Cut back old, woody growth in the spring to encourage fresh, vigorous stems and increased flower production.
- Winter Care: In colder regions, apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots against frost.