How to identify Eastern gray beardtongue (Penstemon canescens)

How to identify Eastern gray beardtongue (Penstemon canescens)

Eastern gray beardtongue, also known as Appalachian Beardtongue, Hairy Beardtongue, Beardtongue

Eastern gray beardtongue is a perennial with a distinctive presence, characterized by pale to purple 2-lipped tubular flowers that grace the plant from May to July. The foliage is a blend of narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are coated with short grayish hairs, contributing to its overall hairy texture. These hairs can be found on the stems and flowers as well, presenting a visually captivating surface. The stems are erect and sturdy, supporting the weight of the blossoms which can be appreciated for their delicate form. The height of the plant can range from 1.5 to 2.5 feet (45 to 75 cm), making it suitable for various garden settings. With its unique floral structure, eastern gray beardtongue adds a subtle charm to any area it inhabits.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Eastern gray beardtongue

Pale to purple 2-lipped tubular flowers from May to July.

Erect stems with dense gray hairs and sturdy structure.

Basal leaves broadly ovate, stem leaves oblong-lanceolate with toothed margins.

Delicate pink to purple flowers with distinctive swollen corolla and dark lines.

Small oval fruit capsule, green turning light brown, clustered at stem ends.

Detailed Traits of Eastern gray beardtongue

Leaf Features

The basal leaves of eastern gray beardtongue are broadly ovate, providing a wide, somewhat egg-shaped appearance. Its stem leaves, measuring 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) long, are clasping and shaped oblong-lanceolate with opposite arrangement. Each leaf has a rounded to heart-shaped base and toothed margins. Notably, both stems and leaves are covered in short gray hairs, giving them a distinctive texture. These features contribute to the easily identifiable characteristics of eastern gray beardtongue's foliage.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of eastern gray beardtongue are a delicate pale pink to purple, measuring up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in length. They form on terminal racemes and feature a corolla that is abruptly swollen in the middle, with characteristic grooves and dark lines in the open throat. These vibrant blooms appear from May to July, adding a splash of color during this period. Their unique shape and markings serve as key identification features for enthusiasts.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of eastern gray beardtongue is distinctly hairy and green, possessing a notable texture that is soft to touch. These stems are typically slender, measuring around 0.2-0.4 inches (0.5-1 cm) in diameter. They exhibit a moderate branching pattern, with branches often emerging oppositely along the main stem. A unique aspect of the stem is the dense, fine hairs that give it a gray-green appearance, aiding in identification even before flowering occurs.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of eastern gray beardtongue is a small, oval capsule that measures approximately 0.4 inches (1 cm) in length. As it matures, the capsule typically dries and splits open, revealing numerous tiny seeds. It has a papery texture and is initially green, turning to a light brown as it dries. These capsules are often found clustered at the stem ends, persisting after the blooming period that concludes in early summer.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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