How to prune penstemon 'stapleford gem'

Mid to late spring, once new basal growth is visible; deadhead throughout summer. In late spring, cut all old woody stems back to just above the lowest pair of healthy new shoots at the base. Do not cut back in autumn — the old stems offer frost protection over winter. Pinch or cut spent flower spikes back to a side shoot during the season to keep blooming.

Once per year in spring; deadhead regularly through summer. Penstemon 'Stapleford Gem' is a semi-evergreen perennial that needs annual pruning to stay vigorous and tidy. Deadhead through summer to prolong flowering. In spring, wait until you see new growth breaking from the base before cutting old stems back — pruning too early in cold spells can risk frost damage to emerging shoots.

In late spring, cut all old woody stems back to just above the lowest pair of healthy new shoots at the base. Do not cut back in autumn — the old stems offer frost protection over winter. Pinch or cut spent flower spikes back to a side shoot during the season to keep blooming.