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Penstemon species
Common Name Penstemon, Beardtongue
Family Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)
 Description
Penstemon, or Beardtongue as it's commonly referred to, has characteristically trumpet-shaped flowers ranging in color from bright white to deep purple. The leaves are elliptical in shape, with the basal leaves generally larger and broader than those toward the top of the plant.
Range
There are literally hundreds of different Penstemon species to be found throughout the Intermountain West. Elevation: to 9,000ft.
Culture
Prefers any well-drained soil. Can tolerate full sun, but prefers partial shade.
Value
One could write books on penstemon. Colors range from cream to blue to red to mauve. Sizes range from ground covers (P. caespitosum) to sub shrubs to plants with flower stalks to 4 feet. Having seen only a fraction of the species native to Utah alone, it is impossible to comment on those most suited to landscapes, but P. palmeri, the only fragrent penstemon, with tall creamy flowers is pure delight; the electric blue of P. cyanathus is unforgettable as is the bright red of P. eatonii. Mexicali penstemons are hybrids that produce lavender-red blooms all summer. One or two species common in the trade, but most are not. For more information on Penstemon species, visit The Penstemon Website.
Propagation
To stars indoors soak seed in gibberillic acid at 1:500 ppm for 5 hours, rinse well. Sow into container and cover to depth. For sowing seeds outdoor place in desired location and cover with ¼" of soil in the fall, spring, or summer. Germination will be sporadic over several years. Divisions may be done in spring or fall.
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A thing is right when it tends to preserve the integrity, stability and beauty of the biotic community. It is wrong when it tends otherwise.
Aldo Leopold
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