scarlet bugler
Penstemon centranthifolius
USDA zones8 to 10
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size2 to 4 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Red
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Scarlet bugler (Penstemon centranthifolius) is a perennial for borders, containers, and xeriscape gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 8, or down to 10°F (-12°C). This plant likes full or part sun and dry, sandy, loamy, or clay soil. Tall stalks carry dozens of bright red, trumpet-shaped flowers in spring and summer, and hummingbirds and bees visit them. It sits low on the menu for deer.
Pairs well with Matilija poppy, Jerusalem sage, and Vetiver.
Native range
CA.