large beardtongue
Penstemon grandiflorus
USDA zones3 to 8
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size2 to 4 feet tall12 to 18 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Lavender blue
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Large beardtongue (Penstemon grandiflorus) is a perennial for meadow gardens and low maintenance beds. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun and dry to average, sandy, loamy, or chalky soil. Lavender blue, tubular flowers sit on stout stems above blue-green, waxy leaves. Deer tend to pass it by. Hummingbirds, bees, and birds visit it, and it looks best when you plant it in masses.
Pairs well with Arizona Sun blanket flower, Foxtail barley, and Common toadflax.
Native range
Central United States.