Also known as beardtongue, penstemon is a large group of flowering perennial plants native to North America. Since these plants range in height and color, you can find a species to fit in nearly any garden. Penstemon plants offer insects both pollen and nectar.

Understanding the Context

I was back at my friend Pat’s house this week after seeing her “mini arboretum” last week. This time Pat gave me a guided tour of her plantings. I noticed she had numerous varieties of penstemon. Last ...

Key Insights

Among the best groups of flowering perennials for desert landscapes are the spring-flowering penstemons. Penstemons are native throughout North America. Although the number of species is greatest for ... Penstemon, also known as beardtongue, is a hardy perennial with colorful, tube-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds. Learn how to plant, grow, and care for penstemon in your garden—from soil prep to pruning tips.

Final Thoughts

Beardtongue (Penstemon) plants come in a wide variety of sizes and colors. Learn how to grow these flowers to attract plenty of bees and butterflies. Penstemon pinifolius is a summer bloomer with loose spires of 1-inch narrow scarlet tubular flowers. It has needlelike foliage and is slightly woody at the base, making the species an excellent choice for dry rock gardens or walls. Part of the plantain family (Plantaginaceae), penstemons are a huge genus of plants encompassing approximately 270 species and over 800 cultivars and hybrids. The name is derived from the Greek words penta and stemon, referring to the flower’s five stamens, four of which are fertile and one sterile.

Penstemon – How to Grow and Care for Beardtongue Plants - Garden Design