Penstemon barbatus
Bearded Grecian
Common names: Bearded Penstemon
Photo: Bettina Arrigoni · CC BY 2.0 · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
The Bearded Penstemon (*Penstemon barbatus*) produces upright flower spikes from early summer to early autumn, usually in red or pink hues, on slender stems above a rosette of narrow leaves. Bees and bumblebees are attracted to the tubular flowers, making the plant well suited for a pollinator garden or a sunny perennial border. It originates from the mountainous regions of Mexico and the southern United States and brings with it a preference for poor, well‑drained soils. In heavy, clayey soils it struggles, but it tolerates drought and full sun very well. Cultivars such as ‘Rondo’ or ‘Schooley’s Yellow’ add additional color variations to the garden.
Care instructions
Plant in full sun on a well‑drained, somewhat poor soil; improve heavy, wet soils with sand or fine gravel beforehand. Water only during prolonged dry periods and avoid waterlogging, especially in winter, as this stresses the plant more than cold. Regularly remove spent flower spikes to encourage a second, weaker late‑summer flush. Leave the foliage in place in autumn for natural winter protection, and cut back to ground level only in early spring, around the end of March (week 13). In mild climates the plant is winter hardy; in harsher regions a loose straw mulch over the base helps protect it.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, lean, sandy, dry
Feeding
Light feeder
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