Richfield Selection Beardtongue (Penstemon)

Richfield Selection is a named conservation selection of firecracker penstemon (Penstemon eatonii), released by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service for restoration and wildlife plantings. Its bright red tubular flowers are carried on stems about 24–36 inches tall from mid-summer into early fall. ## Garden Use This short-lived perennial attracts pollinators and can be used in low-water landscaping, roadside plantings and restoration work. Its dry-site adaptation is strongest in cooler, higher-elevation settings; it may struggle in hot, dry locations. The [USDA NRCS release brochure](https://westernnativeseed.com/plant%20guides/richfieldpg.pdf) documents the selected germplasm, release history, flower period and USDA hardiness zones 4a–8b. ## Growing Conditions Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil. Avoid poorly drained ground, and consider the local elevation and moisture regime when siting plants. The source describes Richfield Selection as a cool-season forb with flowering typically beginning in the second growing season. ## Maintenance Allow plants to establish before expecting a full display. Remove old flower stalks after seed dispersal if volunteers are not wanted; retain some seed heads where natural regeneration is useful.