Penstemon 'Czar' is a vigorous upright perennial to 75cm tall, with lance-shaped leaves and spires of small bell shaped tubular flowers. The foliage is an attractive fresh green, and the flowers are a purple plum colour with pure white throats. This hardy semi evergreen plant is best left until early spring after the risk of harsh frosts has passed before pruning back any dead stems and excess growth, although can be pruned by a third in early autumn if likely to be damaged by winter winds. Will tolerate any well drained soil, in sun or part shade. In colder areas protect with a dry mulch in winter. Penstemon have the added advantage of being unlikely to be damaged by slugs, or grazing animals.