Contents
Description
Penstemon Buckleyi is a herbaceous perennial plant with showy, tubular flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It belongs to the family Plantaginaceae and is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with an upright habit and lance-shaped leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
Penstemon Buckleyi has lance-shaped leaves that are 1-3 inches long and 0.3-0.6 inches wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with serrated edges. The plant produces upright stems that are covered in small hairs. The flowers are tubular and bell-shaped, with five lobes that are pink or lavender in color. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water
Penstemon Buckleyi requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Penstemon Buckleyi does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring, or use a compost or organic mulch to improve soil fertility.
Soil
Penstemon Buckleyi prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic.
Sunlight
Penstemon Buckleyi thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to bloom and grow properly.
Hardiness Zones
Penstemon Buckleyi is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Buckleyi is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the plant can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, if grown in humid conditions or poorly drained soil. The plant may also attract spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Penstemon Buckleyi is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. The plant grows in dry, rocky slopes, canyons, and open woodlands at elevations of 3,000-7,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Penstemon Buckleyi tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Penstemon Buckleyi is drought-tolerant once established. However, the plant requires moderate watering during the growing season to bloom and grow properly.
Q: How do I propagate Penstemon Buckleyi?
A: Penstemon Buckleyi can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, or division. Seeds should be sown in early spring or late fall, while stem cuttings and division should be done in early spring or late summer.
Q: How long does Penstemon Buckleyi bloom?
A: Penstemon Buckleyi blooms from late spring to early summer, typically for 3-4 weeks.
Q: Can Penstemon Buckleyi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Penstemon Buckleyi can be grown in containers as long as the pot has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Cobaea
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Hirsutus
- Penstemon Pinifolius
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEBUC
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/penstemon/growing-penstemon-plants.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/penstemon-buckleyi
- https://www.hortmag.com/plants/plants-we-love/penstemon-buckleyi
