Plant Profile: Ipomopsis rubra

This native biennial wildflower is typically cultivated as a half-hardy annual, yet it can persist in gardens for several years through self-seeding. To propagate, sow the seeds in lightly raked soil during the fall. In its first year, the plant develops a fern-like rosette, followed by a flowering spike in the second year. Trimming the spent flower spike can encourage a second round of blooms. The vibrant red, tubular flowers, which hang down from the sturdy spike, are particularly attractive to hummingbirds. This plant thrives in well-drained soils, ranging from gravelly to sandy or medium loam. While it flourishes in full sunlight, it can also tolerate partial shade and is known for its drought resistance and ability to deter deer.