Penstemon Dakota™ Burgundy

Penstemon ‘Dakota™ Burgundy’ (Penstemon x mexicali ‘Dakota™ Burgundy’) is a compact, long-blooming perennial prized for its striking, deep burgundy-red tubular flowers held on strong, upright stems. From early summer into autumn, each 45–60 cm stem is smothered in nectar-rich blooms that attract hummingbirds and bees. This variety forms neat clumps of narrow, mid-green foliage and performs best in full sun with well-drained soil. Hardy in Canadian zones 4–9, ‘Dakota™ Burgundy’ is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance, making it perfect for rock gardens, borders or containers.

Key Features
• Botanical name: Penstemon x mexicali ‘Dakota™ Burgundy’
• Common name: Dakota™ Burgundy Beardtongue
• Hardiness zones: Canada Zone 4–9
• Exposure: Full sun (minimum 6 hours daily)
• Soil: Well-drained loam or sandy soil; avoids waterlogged conditions
• Height: 45–60 cm (18–24 in)
• Width: 30–45 cm (12–18 in)
• Foliage: Narrow, mid-green lanceolate leaves
• Flower colour: Rich burgundy-red tubular blooms
• Bloom time: Early summer to early autumn (June–September)
• Maintenance: Low; cut back spent stems to encourage rebloom; divide every 3–4 years
• Advantages: Long-blooming; drought- and deer-resistant; hummingbird- and pollinator-magnet; compact habit ideal for mixed borders and containers