Description
Penstemon (Beardtongue)
Penstemon spp.
Plant Type
Herbaceous Perennial
Herbaceous Perennial
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Full Sun
Water Needs
Low to Moderate
Low to Moderate
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 – 9
USDA Zones 3 – 9
Height / Spread
1.5–3 ft / 1–2 ft
1.5–3 ft / 1–2 ft
Bloom Time
Late Spring – Mid Summer
Late Spring – Mid Summer
About Penstemon
Penstemon, commonly known as Beardtongue, is a resilient North American native perennial prized for its upright spires of tubular, bell-shaped flowers hovering over neat basal mounds of foliage. Available in vivid shades of purple, dark red, rose, pink, blue, and white—often with striking dark burgundy foliage varieties—Penstemon delivers exceptional structure, color, and grace to sunny borders, rock gardens, and naturalized landscapes.
Key Features
- Hummingbird Favorite: The tubular blossom structure is perfectly designed for hungry hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
- Drought & Heat Tolerant: Thrives in hot, sunny conditions and copes exceptionally well with lean or dry soils.
- Deer & Rabbit Resistant: Unpalatable to grazing wildlife, making it a dependable choice for open borders.
- Versatile Foliage & Flowers: Provides stunning vertical accents in flower beds and works wonderfully in fresh floral arrangements.
Grower’s Tip: Penstemon requires fast-draining soil to prevent winter root rot; avoid overly wet, heavy clay soils or over-watering. Deadhead spent flower spires after the initial flush to encourage clean foliage and occasional reblooming later in the season.
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