Penstemon Pensham Arctic Fox

The Pensham Series of penstemons are characterised by sturdy, prolific plants, stamina over a long flowering season, and resistance to drought and slug damage. Penstemon ‘Pensham Arctic Fox’ is an exquisitely elegant variety producing spikes of small, pure white tubular flowers from midsummer to mid-autumn. The flowers contrast beautifully with the glossy green, spear-shaped semi-evergreen foliage. This hardy and reliable penstemon looks stunning in combination with grey-leafed plants. Height: 60cm (24in). Spread: 45cm (18in).

Penstemons are invaluable plants for the front of the border. These are generous perennials, putting on a non-stop performance for little work aside from dead-heading and after their main summer flush they will often stretch themselves with subsequent blooms deep into autumn. Not only are they one of the longest-flowering perennials available but they come in an infinite number of varieties and the colour range is vast. From luxurious purples and daring reds to luminous cools blues and creams – there is a penstemon out there for every taste. Their upright panicles of trumpet-shaped flowers are complemented by elegant, semi-evergreen, lance shaped leaves. Penstemon flowers are rich in pollen and nectar and provide plenty of food for pollinating insects, making them not only gorgeous to look at but excellent for wildlife too.

Grow penstemon in a sunny or semi shaded position on fertile, well drained soil. Penstemons can tolerate dry soils once established but dislike heavy soils that are particularly cold and wet in winter. Improve heavy soils by adding plenty of coarse grit prior to planting.