Penstemon Dark Towers Uk? The 127 Detailed Answer

If you want to grow varieties that require the least amount of soil preparation and watering and reliably overwinter, choose species that are native to your area and thrive in similar soil conditions and climates. Though many are native to arid regions of the West and Southwest, almost every state in the continental US has at least one native Penstemon, showing the amazing range of climates they are suited to.

“The beauty and variability of penstemon has put them at the forefront of home gardening, especially in areas prone to drought,” says Jennifer Bennett, author of Dryland Gardening. “There are so many good Penstemons out there, and new ones appearing every year, that anywhere in North America it’s possible to breed at least one [species of] Penstemon native to your area.”

These are some of the most customizable and widely used options:

Bearded Tongue (P. barbatus):

A showy plant with erect spikes of 2 inch long reddish orange flowers and glossy lance shaped leaves. It is native to the southwest and grows best in dry climates. (Zones: 4-8; Height: 2 to 3 feet; Flowering Time: June to September)

Foxglove tongue (P. digitalis):

Native to the northern Great Plains and northeastern states, this species is more tolerant of high humidity and moist soil than those of western origin. The elegant trumpet-shaped flowers are white or pale pink, with the inner surfaces often marked by purple-tinted nectar guides. (Zones: 3-8; Height: 3 to 5 feet; Flowering Time: May to June)

Penstemon (P. heterophyllus):

A native Californian with glossy blue-green leaves and blue flowers on slender spikes. Resistant to drought and heat, it thrives on dry, rocky slopes and hillsides. Varieties include ‘Blue Springs’ and ‘Electric Blue’. (Zones: 6-10; Height: 1 to 1½ feet; Flowering Time: May to June)

Firecracker Penstemon. Photo by John P. Weiser/Millette Photomedia

Fireworks fascination (P. eatonii):

A native of California and the Southwest, with bright red hummingbird magnet flowers and large, leathery, evergreen leaves. (Zones: 4-8; Height: 1 to 3 feet; Flowering Time: Early to Mid Spring)

Pink Snapdragon (P. palmeri):

One of the few fragrant, honey-scented, light pink flowers held high on spikes up to 6 feet tall. It is native to southern California, Arizona, and Utah and thrives in arid climates and dry, sandy soil. (Zones: 5-8; Height: 3 to 6 feet; Flowering Time: Late Spring)

Pine Leaf Warbler (P. pinifolius):

Loose spikes of bright orange-red flowers and evergreen leaves that resemble tiny pine needles. Excellent species for dry rock gardens. Native of southern New Mexico and eastern Arizona. (Zones: 4-9; Height: 10 to 12 inches; Flowering Time: Late Spring to Mid Summer)

Mexicali hybrids (P. ×mexicali):

Mexicali Penstemons are hybrids of Mexican species with large, showy flowers crossed with native North American species that have good cold tolerance. The palette of flower colors covers the entire Penstemon spectrum. Two popular strains are rosy-pink Red Rocks® and violet-purple Pikes Peak Purple®. (Zones 5-9; Height: 12 to 18 inches; Flowering Time: early to late summer)

Rocky Mountain beartongue (P. strictus):

Native to Wyoming, Utah, and western Colorado, this blue-flowered species thrives in rocky or gravelly soils, but adapts well to soils in many parts of the country. It is also one of the longest lasting and easiest to grow from seed. ‘Bandera’, a highly ornamental variety, offers the advantage of having a greater tolerance to heavy clay soils. (Zones: 4-9; Height: 2 to 3 feet; Flowering Time: Early Summer)

Beardtongue, Beardtongue: “Beardtongue”

Whenever I teach school children about the symbiotic relationship between plants and pollinators, I feature penstemons as the perfect example of a flower that hummingbirds frantically seek out because of its deep, nectar-rich burrows. Likewise, when I’m looking for a hardy, long-flowering perennial for a planting design, I turn to penstemon.

Please read on to learn why the hummingbirds and I use Penstemon.

Photography by Britt Willoughby Dyer for Gardenista.

Above: Penstemon ‘Raven’ is a good choice for floral arrangements with its dramatic purple flowers and long lasting cut flower habit.

First of all I would like to thank the plantain family for giving us some pretty amazing flowers including foxgloves, snapdragons and barbeltongues. With more than 300 species, there is a variety of penstemon for every garden theme, design, location and size.

Penstemon is a herbaceous perennial that characteristically has slender leaves and showy spikes of tubular flowers in an array of mostly saturated colors including pink, white, purple, red and occasionally yellow.

In North America, Penstemons are often used in xeriscape or rock garden designs as many are native to desert areas and can withstand the harsh, arid conditions while still providing a colorful impact. But Penstemon also looks good in a cottage garden when mixed with perennials such as cosmos, hydrangeas and roses.

Above: Penstemon’s tubular flowers are a rich source of nectar for pollinators

Some favorites are Penstemon ‘Midnight’ with deep purple flowers and deep green leaves (an evergreen variety) and Penstemon ‘Apple Blossom’ with large, trumpet-shaped, pink flowers with a white throat. It is very showy but short-lived, requiring replanting every three to five years.

Above: Penstemon ‘Sour Grapes’.

cheat sheet

Flowering time for penstemon usually starts in late spring to early summer, so try plants that start flowering in mid-summer like coneflowers and black-eyed susan to fill the gap.

Like hummingbirds, bees also love pollen and nectar; Penstemon is a clever addition to a pollinator or meadow garden.

Try planting penstemons in groups of three or five for mass appeal (but avoid overcrowding).

Above: Penstemon ‘Sour Grapes’ is a reliable repeat bloomer when dead during the summer season.

keep it alive

As natives of the prairie, penstemons like fast-draining soil. Sandy or rocky (no clay) is best, and once established they like to be watered deeply but infrequently.

Place penstemons in full sun for a more upright and less droopy appearance.

While sounding finicky, penstemons prefer to be mulched with gravel (not bark) to keep their crowns from rotting in winter.

Penstemon range in height from 1 to 3 feet depending on the species and will perform best when the faded flowers are pruned to encourage rebloom and order. In spring, cut the entire plant down to the ground.

Read more growing tips in Penstemon: A Field Guide to Planting, Care & Design in our curated guides to Perennials 101. See more of our favorite hardy perennials:

Many different species of penstemon are found in home gardens in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5b through 8a, from hairy bearded tongue (Penstemon canescens, zones 5b through 8a) to showy hybrids such as ‘Husker Red’ penstemon (Penstemon digitalis ‘Husker Red’) . ‘, zones 3 to 8). These adaptable perennials require very little maintenance when grown in the right conditions, although they will benefit from harsh pruning or pruning to improve their bud production and overall appearance. Penstemon pruning is easy to do and requires very little time and effort, although it must be done at the right time of year to have the greatest effect.

Penstemon is a wonderful Native American genus of wildly diverse flowering perennials. This is a little-known genus of enormous proportions that would be difficult to understand in one session, perhaps even in a lifetime. From dwarf groundcovers to tall shrubs, xeriscaping to constant moisture, Penstemons cover the full spectrum of diversity. Here’s a brief overview of this wonderful wildflower, straight from an amateur gardener’s research journal.

With around 100 Penstemon species to choose from, finding beautiful native plants is easy. Using native plants is a great way to control insects and disease while encouraging natural wildlife in your garden. Penstemon occur naturally throughout the Americas, from warm Central America to the frigid plains of Canada. With strains used to such varied growing conditions, you’re sure to find one that suits your unique garden situation.

Penstemon generally have tall, loose spikes with small flowers atop small or thin leaves. They vary in height from a few centimeters to several meters. Some species of Penstemon are highlighted here.

Crested beard tongue (P. eriantherus)

This lavender flowering cultivar is native to Pacific Northwest America to Canada and ranges southeast to northern Nebraska and Colorado. It blooms in June and July and thrives in cooler, wetter conditions.

Gulf Coast penstemon (P. tenuis)

Native to Texas, Gulf Coast Penstemon is a fantastic choice for southern gardeners as it is used in mixed borders to add height and color. It is particularly suitable for dealing with high humidity and imperfect drainage.

Clam Leaf Penstemon (P. grandiflorus)

Shell Leaf Penstemon is a large-flowered variety with tubular pink-lavender flowers. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and is native to the eastern Great Plains of the United States. This is an excellent Penstemon for high impact in well-draining, full sun locations.

Cardwell’s penstemon (P. cardwelli)

Cardwell’s Penstemon is also native to the Pacific Northwest and named after Dr. James Cardwell who was actively studying wildflowers in the late 19th century. Cardwell’s Penstemon is a compact shrub with light purple to pink flowers and does well with some height and good drainage.

Whipple penstemon (P. whippleanus)

Whipple’s Penstemon is a beautiful plum colored plant native to the western United States, making it a great xeriscaping candidate for surviving wind and even planting at high altitude.

A menu from Penstemon

Take a look at a handful of native Penstemon species. Note the wide variety of colors and sizes. Click on the image to go to each species’ plant file entry.

Eastern Gray Penstemon (P. canescens) Beartongue (P. hartwegii)

Parry’s Penstemon (P. parryi) Firecracker (P. eatonii) Small Penstemon (P. smallii) Penstemon (P. barbatus)

Scarlet beardtongue (P. murrayanus)

P. pseudospectabilis

Sunset crater thread sentinel (P. clutei)

Newberry’s penstemon (P. newberryi)

Mountain fountain (P. bridgesii)

P.cobaea

White-stick Penstemon (P. tubiflorus)

Rock penstemon (P. baccharifolius)

Rocky Mountain penstemon (P. strictus)

Dwarf penstemon (P. hirsutus var. pygmaeus)

Cascade thread monitor (P. serrulatus) Tree tongue (P. davidsonii)

Pineaf penstemon (P. pinifolius)

S. ellipticus

varieties to consider

In addition to countless beautiful species, many Penstemon cultivars are also available. Varieties offer a wide range of colors, growth forms and flower sizes. Varieties are sometimes easier to find commercially than Penstemon species, so keep an eye out for these gems!

Phoenix series

A new group of Penstemon strains called the Phoenix Series. This series, which includes other color variations like red and magenta, was specifically bred to withstand heat and be disease resistant. The neck is bright white, which provides a stark contrast to the deeply colored outer edges. The Phoenix series grows to about 18 inches tall and makes excellent bedding plants or in containers.

Rondo Mix

Husker’s Red

Stapleford Gem (Sour Grapes) Mersea Yellow Bunchleaf Penstemon- Margarita BOP

Bandera Raven Pikes Peak Purple True Blue

Enjoy a beautiful native in your garden today! Choose a Penstemon that suits your individual gardening needs. Penstemons are a more rewarding landscape plant than you can imagine.

Sources:

http://www.penstemon.org/WhatPents.htm

http://stockseedfarms.com/wildflowers_product_display.asp?pid=358

http://ghs.gresham.k12.or.us/science/ps/nature/gorge/5petal/figwort/penst/cardwell.htm

http://www.biosci.ohio-state.edu/~awolfe/Penstemon/Species.html

http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/Plant.asp?code=G590 (P. digitalis)

http://www.plantsystematics.org/reveal/pbio/LnC/fam1.html

http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/plants/wildflwr/species/penseria.htm

Photo credit:

Ally_UT – crested beard tongue

Broots-P. hartwegii

Frostweed- P. cobaea and Rock Penstemon

Growin-Newberry’s Penstemon

Coincidence – Husker’s Red

Htop- P. pseudospectabilis

Jamieh68 – Stapleford Gem

Joy Rondo Mix

Kaperc Bunchleaf Penstemon

Merchant – Bearded Tongue

Lilylover_UT – Firecrackers, Meresa Yellow and Whipple’s Penstemon

Marilynbeth – Mountain Fountain

Peachespickett-White Wand

Poppysue Rocky Mountain Penstemon and Shell Leaf Penstemon

QCapen – Pike’s Peak Purple Penstemon

Terry Bandera

Todd_Boland – P. cardwelli, P. davidsonii, P. ellipticus, P. serrulatus, Pinleaf Penstemon and Dwarf Hairy Penstemon

TomH3787-Scarlett Beardtongue

Xenomorph – Sunset Crater

Yotedog – Eastern Gray

dicentra63—True Blue

Chiltepin1 – Gulf Coast penstemon

Gerris 2—S. smallii

This article was originally published on August 4, 2008. Please note that the author may not be available to answer questions at this time.

Nearly 270 species of bearded tongue (Penstemon spp.) occur in the wild in a range that stretches from Alaska to Central America. They perform well in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8. Most cultivated beard tongues, also called beard tongue plants, bloom in late spring and early summer, depending on the species. The flowers fade fairly quickly, but flowering time can be extended with careful pruning.

According to the National Gardening Association, bearded tongues need warmth to bloom profusely, so they can bloom at different times depending on the local climate. Colder areas, where the ground and air slowly warm in spring, see the main blooms in mid-summer once temperatures have risen.

Warmer areas and coastal climates with less pronounced seasonal temperature fluctuations will see their first blooms in mid to late spring. Under ideal conditions, plants will continue to bloom sporadically until late summer, when they experience a second, less spectacular bloom before entering dormancy.

Common Name Bearded Tongue Botanical Name Penstemon Family Name Plantain Family Plant type Herbaceous, perennial Adult Size 6 in. to 8 ft. tall and 8 to 20 in. wide Sun Exposure Rich soil type Well-drained soil pH Neutral to Acid Flowering Time Spring, Summer Flower Color Purple, blue, orange, red, yellow, pink, white Hardiness Zones 3-8 Native range North America

Beard tongue care

Beardtongue plants typically bloom in early summer, filling the gap between the end of spring bulbs and the ripening of summer flowers like coneflowers, yarrow, and coreopsis. Most Penstemons are 1 to 3 feet tall, but Palmer’s Penstemon can grow up to 6 feet, giving you options for the center and back of the border. Regularly keep the Penstemon flower bed weed-free. A 3-inch layer of organic mulch can help control weeds, and rock mulch is also a suitable choice. You can prune back the spent flower stalks after flowering to keep the plants looking tidy. Penstemons don’t compete well with other plants, so give them plenty of space in the garden.

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

light

Plant your whiskers in a spot that gets full sun. Adequate sun exposure helps the tall stems stay upright and not droop.

floor

The soil for beard tongues must drain very well. Native to the prairie, these plants prefer rocky or sandy lean soil types over rich garden loam. It’s okay to amend the soil with compost to achieve adequate crumbling, but avoid fertilizer applications.

water

Penstemons tolerate drought, but 1 inch of water per week in summer will keep plants vigorous and encourage better flowering.

temperature and humidity

Gardeners in USDA growing zones 3 through 9 have an opportunity to try penstemons, although some cultivars may only be hardy in zones 4 or 5. They can thrive in a range of moisture conditions.

fertilizer

Feed bearded tongue plants once a year with organic fertilizer applied in the fall. Feeding these flowers conventional flowering-promoting formulas can encourage too much growth and shorten the lifespan of the plants.

Types of Penstemon

‘Dark Towers’ is similar to Husker Red but with pale pink flowers and darker foliage.

is similar to Husker Red but with pale pink flowers and darker foliage. ‘Elfin Pink’ makes a good rock garden plant, growing to just under 12 inches tall.

is a good rock garden plant, growing to just under 12 inches tall. ‘Husker Red’ is perhaps the best-known variety, having won Perennial of the Year in 1996; it has reddish-purple foliage and white flowers.

is perhaps the best-known variety, having been named Perennial of the Year in 1996; it has reddish-purple foliage and white flowers. ‘Jingle Bells’ has reddish-orange flowers that are beacons for hummingbirds.

has reddish-orange flowers that are beacons for hummingbirds. ‘Piña Colada’, a series of cultivars, features blue, pink or white flowers on compact plants.

, a number of cultivars, features blue, pink, or white flowers on compact plants. ‘Red Riding Hood’ has red flowers and an upright habit.

clipping

Penstemon does not require pruning, but can benefit from cutting faded flowers down to the stalk to encourage new blooms.

Propagation of the beard tongue

Since most of the Beardtongue varieties are single-variety perennials, cultivating them from seeds is the best and easiest method of propagation.

How to grow beard tongue from seed

Penstemons are easy to start from seed. Seeds can germinate better after a period of aging and mimic their conditions in the wild, allowing you to store seeds for several years before planting. If you sow the seeds in the garden, do so in the fall to allow for a natural stratification period. Alternatively, you can stratify the seeds in the fridge for three months if you plan to grow them indoors. Be sure to pay attention to the growing zone when buying seeds, as tender varieties like the Tubular Bells series are often sold alongside the hardy perennial varieties.

wintering

Don’t bother cutting off leaves in winter as this can help protect the plant. A thick layer of foliage can provide a lot of extra protection.

Common pests and plant diseases

Penstemons don’t suffer from too many insect problems, but snails and snails can munch on leaves, especially in moist or shady areas. Scatter diatomaceous earth around plants to deter gnawing insects and set beer traps to catch stragglers.

Penstemon plants are usually disease free when given the right culture with full sun and good drainage. Gardeners with heavy clay can lose plants to root rot, especially in areas with heavy snowfall that experience long spring thaws. In southern gardens, plants that do not have adequate soil drainage or are planted too close together can succumb to powdery mildew or southern rot, a fungal disease also known as white mold. Fungicide sprays treat the symptoms but not the cause, so loosen up your heavy soil with compost or plant penstemons in raised beds to increase air circulation for the roots.

How to make Bearded Tongue bloom

When placing them in the garden, give the plants plenty of space, about 1 to 3 feet apart. Add a little compost if your soil is lacking in nutrients. Water plants at least once a week when young and use mulch liberally to reduce weeds competing for nutrients and light. Mulch also helps protect roots from cold snaps.

1. Choose a spot on your property that gets at least 6 hours of sun per day.

2. Prepare your soil by clearing the area of ​​any existing growth.

3. Mix the wildflower seeds with sand for better visibility.

4. After sowing the seed, we recommend pressing the seed into the soil.

5. Give the area a good water after planting.

6. Have fun!

Step-by-step guide to planting your wildflower seeds.

How to plant wildflowers

Find blends for your region or for specific applications such as dry areas, partial shade, attracting animals, low growth and more.

Over 75 choices that will bloom in their second year and for years to come.

Over 110 quick color choices such as poppy, cosmos, sunflower, zinnia and many more.

Help the birds, bees, butterflies and hummingbirds by planting wildflowers.

Wildflower seeds from your region. Support local wildlife with native wildflowers.

overview

Official plant name Penstemon Plant type Perennial flower Native area North America Hardiness H3 Foliage Deciduous or evergreen with single, narrow leaves Flowers Bell or funnel shaped flowers of various shades Sowing March, April, May Flowering June, July, August, September When to prune September, October, November

prefers sunlight

Full sun / partial shade

Exposed or protected size Height

0.5 – 1M spread

0.1-0.5M flowering time

June – September Soil preferred

chalk, clay, sand moisture

Well drained pH

Any

Penstemons are a popular perennial that will add a unique beauty to your garden and are extremely hardy, allowing them to withstand all but the harshest of conditions.

Penstemon plants come in many varieties and offer you the opportunity to add great color and interest to your garden. They are perfect for planting in flower beds and containers and cope very well with the harsh winter weather.

Penstemons may not be native to the UK but you can easily grow them in your garden and expect them to last for many years.

In this guide, we’ll look at every aspect of penstemons, including where they come from and strains, how to grow them properly, where to buy them, and common diseases and problems.

Penstemon origins

The term “Penstemon” was first introduced in 1748 by scientist John Mitchell.

Until the early 1800s, there were very few recognized species of Penstemon, but this changed significantly over the course of the century as many expeditions across the States and Mexico brought new finds to light. By 1900 there were over 150 recognized species of Penstemon and today there are more than 250.

Although native to North America, Penstemon plants are now popular in many parts of the world thanks to their wide variety of colors and hardiness.

Penstemon mexicali cultivar Red Rock flowers growing in the grass

Penstemon strains

Below are some of the most popular varieties of Penstemon plants –

husker red

Also known as Foxglove Beardtongue, this strain is very popular with growers due to its distinctive red foliage and the fact that it flowers well year after year.

Burgundy

Burgundy is another popular Penstemon variety, and with its deep purple flowers, it makes an excellent cut plant. If you’re growing this type of penstemon, it’s a good idea to propagate it in late fall, as it doesn’t always survive the winter.

apple blossom

This fast-growing variety has white and pink flowers and is excellent for growing in flower beds and as a cut flower.

Crow

Raven pear flowers have deep purple flowers with white throats and bloom best between June and August.

The downside of this strain is that they don’t always survive the winter, so you’ll need to propagate them to be sure.

Alice Hindley

These blue-purple penstemons not only look great but are also a very practical strain to grow in your garden as they survive the winter very well.

Evelyn

Evelyn are a particularly appealing strain due to their bright blooms and lush foliage. Although they are compact, they can grow up to 50 cm in height.

Feeding, care and growth tips

Growing your own Penstemons isn’t overly complicated, but it’s still worth knowing the best way if you want your plants to thrive.

Below are all the main aspects of growing penstemons in your garden.

Plant

Before planting, you should consider where the best place is. Although they can withstand the cold very well, many types of Penstemon are sun-loving, so it’s a good idea to plant them in a spot where they get plenty of sunlight.

When planting, it’s a good idea to use some organic mulch as well as a fertilizer to help the plants take root.

when to plant

The best time to plant penstemons would be in spring or early summer. This gives them enough time to acclimate before the autumn and winter cold sets in.

water demand

In general, watering is not too much of a problem with Penstemons as they love the sun and tolerate dry conditions very well. You should make sure the soil you plant them in isn’t soggy and you only really need to water them during extended dry periods and after you first plant them.

maintenance

Once your plants are established, they don’t need too much care. However, there are a few steps you can take to encourage the best flowering possible.

During the growing season it is always recommended to remove old flowers and remove wilted blooms. This allows it to grow better and flower best.

In winter, penstemons can generally handle cold and frost, but that’s not 100% the case. Certain varieties don’t tolerate it as well as others, so to be on the safe side, apply a layer of mulch in the fall to protect the roots from damage.

Pruning Penstemon

Penstemons don’t need too much pruning compared to some other plants, but it’s still a good idea to prune them back if you notice them overgrowing, or if you want to remove wilted foliage/flowers to encourage new growth.

Habitat & Growing Conditions

Spring Red Penstemon growing in Utah – one of the many types of climates it can thrive in

Most of the more than 250 species of the plantain family come from North America. Given the continent’s enormous size, penstemons can survive in a wide range of climates and adapt very well to their environment.

They grow in very dry climates like the Utah desert as well as harsher climates in the United States.

Where to buy Penstemon

Finding Penstemon plants and seeds is not difficult, whether you are buying online or in person. There are many nurseries that sell them, as well as websites specializing in their different varieties.

A few things to consider when buying Penstemon are –

The diversity

There are many different types of Penstemon. So if you’re looking for a specific species, whether it’s because of color preference, growing conditions, or hardiness, then you shouldn’t have a problem finding it.

Costs

The cost of Penstemons can vary depending on where you buy them, so it’s definitely worth doing your research to get them at the best price. Luckily, this is very easy to do when shopping online.

Penstemon Wild Foxglove – Native to Texas

How to spread Penstemon

Penstemons are fairly easy to propagate, whether you do it by division, seeds or cuttings. Let’s look at propagation from cuttings first, as this is generally the best method.

use cuttings

You can take cuttings from a plant at any time during the growing season, although mid-summer around June/July would normally be the best time.

To start, you should remove some non-flowering cuttings and place them in a small seed tray filled with quality compost. Make sure you water them well after planting.

You should trim any cuttings you use until they are about 4-5 inches long and trim any leaves on the top and sides to reduce water requirements and moisture loss.

If everything is fine, the cuttings should take root and start growing. Depending on how many cuttings you use and the size of your seed tray, you may want to transplant them into their own pots. In any case, you should protect them from frost over the winter and plant them out in the following spring.

seed

Propagation by seed is another option, although it’s not as ideal as using cuttings if you want your plants to be as close to the mother plant as possible.

You can propagate by seed in spring using a heated greenhouse; Early summer is the ideal time to put them out.

division

Finally, reproduction is by division. To do this, simply dig up a plant, divide it carefully and then pot the divided parts separately. Again, spring would be the best time for this.

Common diseases and problems

Although penstemons are very hardy and generally resistant to disease and pests, they can still develop certain problems. Below are some of the most common ones, including how to deal with them.

A bee drinking nectar from a penstemon plant. Luckily, they don’t attract problem insects like snails and snails

rust

Rust is a form of a common fungal disease that can be recognized by the formation of yellow spots on a plant’s leaves. Rust often occurs in damp weather and a good preventive measure is to apply antifungal soap in the spring.

In addition, you should also remove infected leaves and if you notice plants that are heavily affected by rust, you should remove them immediately as they can spread very easily.

Botrytis leaf mold

Another fungal disease – Botrytis leaf mold causes brown spots on infected leaves. An organic fungicide can be successful in treating infected plants, but if you notice plants that are badly infected and look like they are beyond saving, it is best to remove them completely.

powdery mildew

Powdery mildew is something that many plants develop for, and penstemons are no exception.

Powdery mildew gets its name from the fact that infected leaves appear as if they are coated in white powder. Powdery mildew is fairly easy to treat, and you can use a homemade spray containing about a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water to treat any affected leaves.

Powdery mildew usually occurs in humid weather, so be on the lookout for it during dry spells.

Prevent Penstemon disease

There are a few ways to prevent Penstemon disease. Foliar diseases are often spread when it’s cold and wet, so anything you can do to keep your plants dry during these times will help. Using mulch, for example, will help prevent rain from splashing on your plants.

Another good tip is when you water your plants, be careful not to get water on their leaves. You should also take care to remove dead leaves that you find on the ground. Proper spacing will help your plants get enough air and circulation as well.

frequently asked Questions

Are Penstemons difficult to breed?

Penstemons are generally not too difficult to breed and once established they will provide many years of enjoyment. As with all plants, proper care, especially after they are first planted, will ensure they thrive and bloom properly.

When should I cut back Penstemon?

The best time to trim penstemon would be in early spring when the harsh winter weather has passed. You’ll often notice new shoots appearing during this time, so this is the best time to remove old blooms or weathered foliage to encourage new growth.

Are penstemons perennial plants?

Yes, penstemons are perennials, so you can enjoy them for many years and they can thrive in all but the harshest of conditions.

Should You Kill Penstemon?

Deadheading can be one of the best ways to encourage new growth in plants that are starting to look lackluster, and this is also true for Penstemons.

The best time to remove faded flowers would be during the growing season. If you notice buds starting to shrink, you can remove them to encourage new growth.

When is the Best Time to Trim Penstemons?

The best time for pruning is in spring, after the worst of winter weather has passed. In addition to removing dead leaves and flowers from the previous season, you should also trim the stems of any plants that are not sprouting.

irrigation

Water well until plants are established. Try to water well and occasionally, rather than little and often. You shouldn’t need to water well-established plants in medium to heavy soil, but plants growing in light, free-draining soil may need watering every two weeks during prolonged dry spells. The goal would be to just keep the soil moist.

If you’ve planted penstemon in containers, water until it comes through the drainage hole, then let it sit until the soil is dry to a depth of about 1 inch (2.5 cm) before watering again. A saucer placed under the pot reduces the amount of water required.

feeding

Mulching plants in borders with well-rotted manure or garden compost each spring should do the trick. Penstemon are not very hungry plants in the open garden, but in containers it would appreciate a spring application of a balanced all-purpose fertilizer such as Growmore.

dead head

Remove spent bud sites as blooms fade to encourage a long season.

wintering

Hardy barbels outdoors do not need protection. You may want to take cuttings of the more tender varieties to overwinter in the shelter of a greenhouse or cold frame.

In containers

If more than a day or two of freezing temperatures are forecast, wrap containers with a few layers of bubble wrap to protect roots.

Care of older plants

After about five years, barbels often need to be replaced because they become lignified and bloom less well. Propagation by cuttings means you are getting younger and younger.

If you have one of those spots in your yard where nothing seems to be growing, consider popping some Penstemons there and letting the praise flow.

If you’re a western gardener or plant lover, chances are you’re familiar with penstemons. Colorful herbaceous wildflowers, evergreen shrubs, or woody “shrubs,” penstemons grow predominantly in the western United States, but of the approximately 280 species, there is a small percentage that is native to the east. However, the genus is represented by plants growing throughout North America.

The naming convention surrounding this plant species has not always been the clearest. The first scientific description of penstemon was published in 1748 by John Mitchell, an Anglo-American botanist and physician. He used the name to describe the hairy penstemon Penstemon hirsutus or the eastern smooth penstemon P. laevigatus, two species found throughout much of the eastern United States.

Aside from Mitchell, there is some confusion and disagreement as to the origin of the name “Pentsemon”. Some believe the name means “five stamens,” though one of the stamens is sterile, lacking an anther. Others believe that the name means “almost stamen” in reference to this sterile stamen. The name “Beardtongue” is often substituted for Pentsemon and refers to the hairs on one of the stamens and the way the stamen is arranged at the bottom of the flower’s throat. However, the great bearded tongue P. grandiflorus, which grows throughout the Midwest, lacks this identifier.

To add to the confusion, Linnaeus, the father of plant systematics, published Mitchell’s description as Chelone pentstemon, referring to this fifth stamen. Fortunately, the genus eventually reverted to Penstemon, ending the debate, and it’s still in use today.

So let the praise begin!

Most penstemons bloom in late spring, but others bloom throughout summer, especially at higher elevations. Their tubular flowers range from white to scarlet depending on the species, and vary from short, a quarter of an inch long, to several inches long. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, from bumblebees to butterflies and hummingbirds, whose long proboscis can reach deep into the flower’s maw for its nectar reward.

In my garden I grow a number of Penstemons for color and to attract pollinators. The long staves of Palmer’s Penstemon flower stalks produce large but short tubular flowers that attract bees. I love watching the bumblebees plow into the flowers in search of pollen and work their way up the inflorescences, visiting each flower. I also grow several species with red flowers – the Eaton’s penstemon and the fiery scarlethorn, P. barbatus – for hummingbirds that nest in the neighborhood or are on their southward migration.

Of course, here at my home in central Oregon, the deer like to nibble on the developing flowering stems, often when the stems are young and the flowers are beginning to bloom. However, it seems that once the plants bloom, the deer leave them alone and look for other vegetation. The plants are also generally free from insects and pests and can take the crazy summer hailstorm that could otherwise shred the more delicate flora.

Penstemons can be found in many states and Canadian provinces, from arid deserts to mountain meadows. They grow in a variety of soil types, but some can be more restricted, like the critically endangered Peck’s pentsemon, found only in wet grasslands in parts of Oregon, or other species that grow only in disturbed rocky sites. This pioneering habit makes some species like Palmer’s Penstemon palmeri or Eaton’s Penstemon eatonii good candidates for roadside reclamation projects. Plants thrive in full sun and fast-draining volcanic ash soil.

The drought tolerant nature of this plant has fueled its spread from wild to cultivated landscapes and rock gardens. Though some species are short-lived, others, once established, thrive with little more than appreciative stares. This tendency to do well in regular garden soil, provided it is kept on the drier side, has made species like the Rocky Mountain pentsemon, Penstemon strictus, a common nursery plant.

Another characteristic of Penstemons is that they are self-seeding, especially if gardeners can leave their flowering stems in place until fall and early winter (leaving a few stems in place also helps protect basal vegetation). The flower’s thick capsule likes to be swept up in the wind to shake loose the seeds and disperse them around the garden. Sometimes, too much emphasis on seed production results in a shorter plant lifespan.

Nurseries have long offered Pensemon seeds for sale. From 1813, John Fraser was selling four types of Penstemon seeds in London. Over time, many hybrids were developed in Europe as new species were discovered during western expeditions to the United States. Today, a number of hybrids, cultivars, and native plants can be found in seed catalogs and garden centers. I even have a few plants that came from wild collected seeds and one or two that were transplanted from dirt roads where their life expectancy wasn’t looking good.

For enthusiasts or anyone who just wants more information, try the American Penstemon Society, an organization dedicated to “all things Penstemon.” They promote the appreciation of these plants both in the garden and in the wild, while providing educational materials on how to grow them. You can also visit Plants of the Southwest, a resource I use for choosing Penstemons to grow in my zone.

1. Choose a spot on your property that gets at least 6 hours of sun per day.

2. Prepare your soil by clearing the area of ​​any existing growth.

3. Mix the wildflower seeds with sand for better visibility.

4. After sowing the seed, we recommend pressing the seed into the soil.

5. Give the area a good water after planting.

6. Have fun!

Step-by-step guide to planting your wildflower seeds.

How to plant wildflowers

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Over 75 choices that will bloom in their second year and for years to come.

Over 110 quick color choices such as poppy, cosmos, sunflower, zinnia and many more.

Help the birds, bees, butterflies and hummingbirds by planting wildflowers.

Wildflower seeds from your region. Support local wildlife with native wildflowers.

Our general spacing recommendation is shown below, but correct and successful spacing is complex and dependent on project conditions. We encourage you to call us at 877-ECO-PLUG for project specific recommendations and further assistance.

Enter the approximate length and width of the area to be planted and click calculate to determine how many Penstemon digitalis you need.

In early summer, white or light pink hued, 1-inch tubular flowers rise on branching, hollow stalks above a basal rosette of glossy dark green leaves. Drought tolerant, hard as nails and deer resistant. The tubular flowers make an excellent landing pad for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds!

Barttongue Interesting clues

Penstemon digitalis, or bearded tongue, blooms in early summer with white or light pink tinged, 1-inch tubular flowers on branching, hollow stalks rising above a basal rosette of glossy dark green leaves. Beardtongue grows 3 to 5 feet tall and is drought tolerant, tough as nails and deer resistant. The vigor in which this plant grows makes it a strong competitor against weeds in a native planting and the tubular flowers are an excellent landing spot for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds alike!

Penstemon digitalis can be found northeast to Maine and southwest to Texas with the highest population density along the Mississippi River Basin. This leads experts to believe that the plant originated here and slowly spread to other places over time. Beardtongues prefer average to moist, well-drained soils in full to partial sun and are found in low, moist areas such as prairies or open woods. Penstemon digitalis is drought tolerant but grows poorly in heavy clay soil. Too heavy soil and winter moisture can cause crown rot in some Penstemon. Beardtongue is one of their best traits and tolerates dry shade as long as it’s not a deep shade.

Perfect for wild and perennial gardens, xeriscaping as well as naturalized areas, Beardtongue supports dozens of native bees and pollinators including long-tongue bees as well as halictid bees, moths, butterflies and hummingbirds. The foliage supports at least three different larval stages of moths and the foliage is generally unattractive to mammalian herbivores. When placed in the right spot, this native will happily self-seed and produce wondrous shoots of soft white in early summer.

Common Name Bearded Tongue Botanical Name Penstemon Family Name Plantain Family Plant type Herbaceous, perennial Adult Size 6 in. to 8 ft. tall and 8 to 20 in. wide Sun Exposure Rich soil type Well-drained soil pH Neutral to Acid Flowering Time Spring, Summer Flower Color Purple, blue, orange, red, yellow, pink, white Hardiness Zones 3-8 Native range North America

Beard tongue care

Beardtongue plants typically bloom in early summer, filling the gap between the end of spring bulbs and the ripening of summer flowers like coneflowers, yarrow, and coreopsis. Most Penstemons are 1 to 3 feet tall, but Palmer’s Penstemon can grow up to 6 feet, giving you options for the center and back of the border. Regularly keep the Penstemon flower bed weed-free. A 3-inch layer of organic mulch can help control weeds, and rock mulch is also a suitable choice. You can prune back the spent flower stalks after flowering to keep the plants looking tidy. Penstemons don’t compete well with other plants, so give them plenty of space in the garden.

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

light

Plant your whiskers in a spot that gets full sun. Adequate sun exposure helps the tall stems stay upright and not droop.

floor

The soil for beard tongues must drain very well. Native to the prairie, these plants prefer rocky or sandy lean soil types over rich garden loam. It’s okay to amend the soil with compost to achieve adequate crumbling, but avoid fertilizer applications.

water

Penstemons tolerate drought, but 1 inch of water per week in summer will keep plants vigorous and encourage better flowering.

temperature and humidity

Gardeners in USDA growing zones 3 through 9 have an opportunity to try penstemons, although some cultivars may only be hardy in zones 4 or 5. They can thrive in a range of moisture conditions.

fertilizer

Feed bearded tongue plants once a year with organic fertilizer applied in the fall. Feeding these flowers conventional flowering-promoting formulas can encourage too much growth and shorten the lifespan of the plants.

Types of Penstemon

‘Dark Towers’ is similar to Husker Red but with pale pink flowers and darker foliage.

is similar to Husker Red but with pale pink flowers and darker foliage. ‘Elfin Pink’ makes a good rock garden plant, growing to just under 12 inches tall.

is a good rock garden plant, growing to just under 12 inches tall. ‘Husker Red’ is perhaps the best-known variety, having won Perennial of the Year in 1996; it has reddish-purple foliage and white flowers.

is perhaps the best-known variety, having been named Perennial of the Year in 1996; it has reddish-purple foliage and white flowers. ‘Jingle Bells’ has reddish-orange flowers that are beacons for hummingbirds.

has reddish-orange flowers that are beacons for hummingbirds. ‘Piña Colada’, a series of cultivars, features blue, pink or white flowers on compact plants.

, a number of cultivars, features blue, pink, or white flowers on compact plants. ‘Red Riding Hood’ has red flowers and an upright habit.

clipping

Penstemon does not require pruning, but can benefit from cutting faded flowers down to the stalk to encourage new blooms.

Propagation of the beard tongue

Since most of the Beardtongue varieties are single-variety perennials, cultivating them from seeds is the best and easiest method of propagation.

How to grow beard tongue from seed

Penstemons are easy to start from seed. Seeds can germinate better after a period of aging and mimic their conditions in the wild, allowing you to store seeds for several years before planting. If you sow the seeds in the garden, do so in the fall to allow for a natural stratification period. Alternatively, you can stratify the seeds in the fridge for three months if you plan to grow them indoors. Be sure to pay attention to the growing zone when buying seeds, as tender varieties like the Tubular Bells series are often sold alongside the hardy perennial varieties.

wintering

Don’t bother cutting off leaves in winter as this can help protect the plant. A thick layer of foliage can provide a lot of extra protection.

Common pests and plant diseases

Penstemons don’t suffer from too many insect problems, but snails and snails can munch on leaves, especially in moist or shady areas. Scatter diatomaceous earth around plants to deter gnawing insects and set beer traps to catch stragglers.

Penstemon plants are usually disease free when given the right culture with full sun and good drainage. Gardeners with heavy clay can lose plants to root rot, especially in areas with heavy snowfall that experience long spring thaws. In southern gardens, plants that do not have adequate soil drainage or are planted too close together can succumb to powdery mildew or southern rot, a fungal disease also known as white mold. Fungicide sprays treat the symptoms but not the cause, so loosen up your heavy soil with compost or plant penstemons in raised beds to increase air circulation for the roots.

How to make Bearded Tongue bloom

When placing them in the garden, give the plants plenty of space, about 1 to 3 feet apart. Add a little compost if your soil is lacking in nutrients. Water plants at least once a week when young and use mulch liberally to reduce weeds competing for nutrients and light. Mulch also helps protect roots from cold snaps.