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Description
Penstemon Fendleri, commonly known as Fendler’s Beardtongue, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, canyons, and open forests. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and blooms in the late spring and early summer. Its flowers are typically bright pink, but they can also be purple, blue, or white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
Penstemon Fendleri is a showy plant that can grow up to three feet tall. Its leaves are typically long and narrow, and they can be either green or a bluish-grey color. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer, producing a profusion of flowers that are typically bright pink, but can also be purple, blue, or white. The flowers have a tubular shape and are arranged in whorls along the stem.
Care Guide
Penstemon Fendleri is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:Water: Penstemon Fendleri should be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize Penstemon Fendleri in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may need to amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.Sunlight: Penstemon Fendleri prefers full sun to partial shade. If you live in a hot climate, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: Penstemon Fendleri is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Fendleri is generally disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, be sure to provide good air circulation around the plant and avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. In terms of pests, aphids and spider mites can be a problem for this plant. If you notice an infestation, you can try spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or using an insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Penstemon Fendleri is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, canyons, and open forests. The plant is well-adapted to hot, dry conditions, and it is often used in xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Fendleri deer-resistant?A: Yes, Penstemon Fendleri is generally deer-resistant.Q: Can Penstemon Fendleri be grown in a container?A: Yes, Penstemon Fendleri can be grown in a container, but be sure to choose a large pot and provide adequate drainage.Q: How often should I fertilize Penstemon Fendleri?A: You should fertilize Penstemon Fendleri once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Q: How do I propagate Penstemon Fendleri?A: Penstemon Fendleri can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the summer or by dividing the plant in the spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Penstemon strictus
- Penstemon digitalis
- Penstemon glaber
- Penstemon barbatus
References
- “Penstemon Fendleri.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed on September 23, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEFE2
- “Penstemon Fendleri: Fendler’s Beardtongue.” Colorado State University Extension. Accessed on September 23, 2021. https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/penstemon-fendleri-fendlers-beardtongue-7-238/
- “Penstemon Fendleri.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on September 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b833
