How to Grow Penstemon 'Chocolate Bar'
Penstemon 'Chocolate Bar'
Penstemon × 'Chocolate Bar'
flowerPenstemon 'Chocolate Bar' is a stunning hybrid beardtongue cultivar featuring deep burgundy to nearly black tubular flowers that resemble chocolate candy. This is a mid-sized perennial that blooms prolifically from late spring through summer, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators. It's a garden standout with dramatic coloring and reliable performance in most climates.
When should you plant Penstemon 'Chocolate Bar' in your zone?
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Example Penstemon 'Chocolate Bar' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Penstemon 'Chocolate Bar'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Penstemon 'Chocolate Bar' blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8, can be grown in zones 3-9 with proper care
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Get my Penstemon 'Chocolate Bar' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Spring Year 1)
4-6 weeksNewly planted seedlings develop a strong root system and begin leafy rosette growth with lance-shaped green foliage.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch lightly around base (avoid piling on crown). Pinch back tips if leggy to encourage branching.
Vegetative Growth (Late Spring-Early Summer Year 1)
4-8 weeksPlant fills out with multiple stems and dense foliage, forming a bushy mound 18-24 inches tall. No flowers yet or minimal bloom.
Reduce watering frequency as soil warms. Begin light feeding with balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks if desired (optional). Ensure excellent drainage.
Flowering (Summer, Years 1-2+)
6-10 weeksTall flower spikes emerge with tubular flowers in deep burgundy-brown to nearly black color arranged densely along the stems. Height reaches 24-30 inches or more.
Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming and encourage more flower production. Water during drought stress but maintain dry conditions. No fertilizer needed; can inhibit flowering.
Peak Bloom (Mid-Summer)
3-4 weeksMaximum flower production with multiple spikes fully open, creating a dramatic display. Plant is a hummingbird magnet.
Deadhead aggressively to prevent seed set and maintain energy for continued blooming. Ensure stakes if plants lean in wind.
Late Bloom & Seed Set (Late Summer-Fall)
4-6 weeksFlowering begins to slow. If not deadheaded, seed pods develop at flower bases. Plant may look less tidy. Foliage remains green.
Leave some flowers for seeds if desired for self-seeding. Cut back spent stems in fall once foliage dies back. No supplemental watering needed in most climates.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity around plants; spray with water; use miticide or neem oil if widespread.
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and
(fungal)
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Remove affected foliage. Apply fungicide if necessary; sulfur is organic option.
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Prevention is key—ensure excellent drainage and do not overwater. Remove and replace affected plants. Improve soil with gravel/sand.
Uses
Garden Drama & Borders
OrnamentalThe deep chocolate-burgundy flowers provide striking color contrast in mixed perennial borders, adding sophistication and depth to garden designs. Excellent for creating focal points and dramatic late-spring to mid-summer color. [source]
Hummingbird & Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeThe tubular flowers are irresistible to ruby-throated hummingbirds and other nectar-feeding birds, as well as bees and butterflies. Provides essential nectar when many spring bloomers have faded. [source]
Edible Flowers for Garnish
CulinaryPenstemon flowers are technically edible and can garnish salads, desserts, and cocktails for visual impact. The flowers have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and add an unexpected gourmet touch. [source]
Fresh & Dried Cut Flowers
HouseholdFlower spikes make excellent long-lasting cut flowers for arrangements and can also be dried for winter arrangements or crafts. The dramatic dark color works in both modern and traditional arrangements. [source]
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental flower, not harvested for food. For cut flowers, harvest spikes in early morning when 1-2 flowers on spike are open. Recut stems underwater and change water every 2-3 days. Lasts 7-10 days in a vase. Deadhead spent flowers on the plant regularly to encourage continued blooming throughout summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'beardtongue' comes from the hairy stamen inside the flower throat that resembles a small beard.
- 🌱 Penstemon is native primarily to North America, with the greatest diversity in western U.S. mountains, and has been called 'the wildflower for gardeners.'
- 🌱 Hummingbirds can visit a single Penstemon flower spike multiple times per minute, making it one of the most rewarding plants for hummingbird gardening.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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