Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus)

Hairy Beardtongue

Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus) is a perennial named for the tiny hairs that grow along its stem. It blooms from spring to summer with trumpet-shaped lilac-purple flowers that grow along a flower stem attracting butterflies bees and hummingbirds. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and makes a great addition to a rock garden or nature garden.

Scientific classification

Species

Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Purple

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Hairy Beardtongue

Quickly Identify Hairy Beardtongue

Clustered lavender-violet trumpet-shaped flowers with distinctive whitish lips

Hairy stem structure with multiple erect stems emerging from a rhizome base

Tufted sterile stamen on each flower for unique identification

Oppositely arranged, lance-shaped leaves with toothed margins and hirsute texture

Slender flower measuring around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length

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Care Guide for Hairy Beardtongue

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Hairy Beardtongue thrives in well-drained soils and prefers consistent moisture while tolerating dry spells. Weekly watering is essential to maintain balance, especially during the growing season. This herbaceous perennial flourishes outdoors in temperate climates, benefiting from varying moisture levels for optimal flowering.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, hairy Beardtongue requires balanced fertilization, starting with a 10-10-10 blend in spring, followed by a high phosphorus fertilizer for flowering. Fertilize quarterly with light doses to avoid over-nutrition. During winter dormancy, no fertilization is necessary, ensuring hairy Beardtongue remains healthy and vibrant.

Pruning: Hairy Beardtongue displays vibrant, tubular blooms with hairy stems and leaves. Prune in early spring or late winter to remove spent flower spikes and damaged stems, promoting healthy blooms. Regular deadheading throughout the season encourages extended flowering and maintains shape, ensuring clean, angled cuts to prevent disease.

Propagation: Hairy Beardtongue is a perennial from the Figwort family, best propagated via cuttings. Use healthy, non-flowering stems, make a clean cut, remove lower leaves, and apply rooting hormone. Plant in well-draining soil, keeping it moist until strong roots develop for thriving wildflowers.

Repotting: Ensure excellent drainage in pots for hairy Beardtongue to promote healthy growth and prevent root rot. Proper drainage is essential for maintaining the right moisture levels.

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