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Originally bred by Edward Wilson of Pershire Plant Raisers, the Pensham Penstemons were bred to withstand lower temperatures and inclement weather, as well as produce beautifully coloured flowers for a longer period than most of the other varieties. This is one of the most popular forms with large white-throated cherry-red flowers that appear on upright stems for many months from midsummer. It looks spectacular when planted in swathes through a late summer border, where its sizzling colour will add oomph to 'hot' themed beds.

• Garden care: Remove the faded blooms regularly to prolong flowering. Apply a dry mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots from frost damage in autumn. Leave the old foliage to protect the new shoots from frost and then cut it back by a third in spring.