Beardtongue (Penstemon species)
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Wastach penstemon (Penstemon cyananthus) at Albion Basin, Utah |
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Beardlip penstemon (Penstemon barbatus) |
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Palmer penstemon (Penstmon palmeri) |
Plant Family
Until recently, penstemons belong to the Figwort or Snapdragon family (Scrophulariaceae). They are now classified in the Plantain (Plantaginacea) Family.
Other Common Names
Beardtongue
Penstemon (by species common name)
Description
A large number of penstemon species are native to North America. Many are available in garden centers for use in the water-wise pollinator landscape. Be aware that some penstemon cultivars sold in gardens centers may not be water wise. Check labels to be sure.
Penstemons are generally short lived perennials that readily reseed. They range from a few inches to 36 inches tall and wide. Showy flower spikes can be short or long. Flower color ranges from white, pink, a variety of blues and purples, and red. Many cultivars have been developed for the garden landscape, including those with dark purple leaves.
Bloom time occurs in spring and summer depending on species and location. Penstemons do best on dry rocky soils that need no additional fertilizer and very little water.
They are adapted to USDA Zones 3 through 7 but some species are also found at very high elevations to at least 10,000 feet in the mountains of the West. Penstemons require full sun to part shade depending on species.
Attracts
- Hummingbirds
- Bees
Additional Resources
The American Penstemon Society
USDA Plants Database - Penstemon
West
Utah - Firecracker pensetmon (Penstemon eatonii)
Utah - Pineleaf beardtongue (Penstemon pinifolius)
Southeast
Southwest
Texas - Baccharis-leaf Penstemon, Red Penstemon, Rock Penstemon, Limestone beardtongue