Beardlip penstemon (Penstemon barbatus)

Beardlip penstemon

Also known as: Golden-beard penstemon, Red beardtongue, St. joseph's staff

Beardlip penstemon (Penstemon barbatus) is a perennial flowering species that grows best in full sunlight. Beardlip penstemon attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The common name references yellow hairs on the lower lip of the flower. Gardeners should avoid fertilizing this plant excessively.

Scientific classification

Species

Beardlip penstemon (Penstemon barbatus)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red

Flower Color

Green, Red

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Beardlip penstemon

Distribution of Beardlip penstemon

Distribution Map

Beardlip penstemon is a plant primarily native to North America. It has also been introduced and cultivated in various other regions, often as an ornamental species. Its range has expanded beyond its native habitat, adapting to diverse environments across the continents.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Beardlip penstemon is a popular choice in cottage and wildlife gardens mostly due to the wildflower look of its tall, nodding red trumpets. Gardeners also appreciate the fact that this plant blooms not only for a long period in the spring but also once more in the fall.

Symbolism

Courage and spiritual knowledge

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Care Guide for Beardlip penstemon

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Beardlip penstemon thrives with consistent moisture, benefiting from weekly watering to reflect its native habitat's rain patterns. As an outdoor plant in temperate regions, it requires careful soil moisture management during the growing season to support vibrant flowering.

Fertilize: For beardlip penstemon, use a balanced fertilizer in spring and switch to high phosphorus during blooming. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, adhering to label guidelines. Reduce feeding in fall and withhold in winter. Water after fertilizing and avoid contact with crowns and foliage.

Pruning: Beardlip penstemon features tall spikes of tubular flowers and benefits from pruning in early to late spring. Remove dead stems for airflow, cut back spent blooms, and thin yearly to maintain vigor. Proper pruning enhances structure and blooming efficiency.

Propagation: Propagation of beardlip penstemon is most effective with cuttings taken in spring or summer. It has moderate difficulty, with indicators of success being new growth and root development. Maintaining consistent moisture for cuttings is essential for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot beardlip penstemon every 2-3 years in spring to support growth. As a bushy perennial, it thrives in well-draining pots slightly larger than its root ball. After repotting, keep beardlip penstemon in indirect light and maintain moist, not waterlogged, soil for optimal flowering and growth.

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Images of Beardlip penstemon

Distribution of Beardlip penstemon

Culture

Care Guide for Beardlip penstemon

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