General Culture:
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Avoid wet, poorly-drained soils.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
This penstemon is a clump-forming, Missouri native perennial which occurs on prairies, limestone glades and rocky bluffs. Typically grows 1-2.5' tall. Features loose, terminal panicles of white to violet to deep purple, 2" long, tubular flowers atop erect, rigid, downy stems. Flowers bloom in mid-spring and are somewhat larger than most penstemons. Downy, clasping, lance-shaped upper leaves. Penstemon in Greek means five stamens (four are fertile and one is sterile). Sometimes commonly called beard tongue because the sterile stamen has a tuft of small hairs.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Root rot can occur in wet, poorly-drained soils.
Uses:
Sunny borders, rock gardens, native plant gardens and wild gardens.
© Missouri Botanical
Garden, 2001-2010
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