Penstemon digitalis - Beardtongue

A well loved variety with an upright spreading habit, ideal for beds, borders and containers; eye-catching lavender blooms contrast nicely against glossy green foliage; plants are vigorous and very drought tolerant

Height: 3 feet. Sun: full sun to partial shade. Hardiness zone: 3a.

Ornamental features

Foxglove Beardtongue has masses of beautiful spikes of lavender tubular flowers rising above the foliage from mid spring to early summer, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its glossy narrow leaves remain green in color throughout the season. The deep purple stems are very colorful and add to the overall interest of the plant.

Landscape

Foxglove Beardtongue is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its medium texture blends into the garden, but can always be balanced by a couple of finer or coarser plants for an effective composition.

This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. It is a good choice for attracting butterflies to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Recommended for: Mass Planting, Border Edging, General Garden Use, Container Planting.

Planting and growing

Foxglove Beardtongue will grow to be about 3 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 24 inches. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 24 inches apart. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!

This plant does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This species is native to parts of North America. It can be propagated by cuttings.

Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder.