Beardtongue (Penstemon) ROCK CANDY™ Ruby - Beardtongue (Penstemon)

Rock Candy® Ruby is a compact, upright beardtongue selection of Penstemon barbatus. Darwin Perennials lists its cultivar denomination as 'Novapenrub' (PP27,820), with flowering spikes, an approximately 12-inch height and spread, and a blooming season from spring into autumn. ## Growing conditions Give this small perennial full sun and use it at the front of a sunny border or in a container, where its compact size is easy to appreciate. The breeder page describes it as heat tolerant and drought tolerant, with light water needs; it also notes attraction to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its listed hardiness band is 5a–8b, and its height and width are each 12 inches. See the [Darwin Perennials Rock Candy® Ruby profile](https://www.darwinperennials.com/Products/Details/?phid=047907343004796) for cultivar details and production information. ## Landscape use The short flower spikes and upright habit suit small-scale plantings, container combinations, and the front edge of a perennial border. Allow room for the clump to reach about one foot in each direction. ## Maintenance After the main flowering display, remove spent stems if a tidy appearance is preferred. In early spring, trim away dead stems and leave emerging basal growth intact.