Penstemon Grinnellii

Description

Penstemon Grinnellii, commonly known as Grinnell’s Beardtongue, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the western United States. It grows up to 60 cm tall and produces showy, tubular, purple to lavender flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant has narrow, lance-shaped, glossy green leaves that are 5-10 cm long and arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The species is named after Joseph Grinnell, an American naturalist and zoologist.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Penstemon Grinnellii is an attractive plant with its tall, slender stems and striking flowers. The flowers are 2-3 cm long and have five fused petals that form a tube-like shape. The petals are two-lipped, with the upper lip forming a hood and the lower lip spreading out into three lobes. The flowers are arranged in dense, terminal clusters that can contain up to 30 flowers. The plant has a deep taproot that allows it to survive in dry conditions.

Care Guide

Penstemon Grinnellii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soil. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: Penstemon Grinnellii prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant grows in USDA hardiness zones 5-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Penstemon Grinnellii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Penstemon Grinnellii is native to the western United States, where it grows in dry, rocky areas, sagebrush steppe, and open woodlands. It can be found at elevations ranging from 1500 to 2500 meters.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Penstemon Grinnellii a good plant for attracting pollinators?A: Yes, Penstemon Grinnellii is a great plant for attracting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.Q: Can Penstemon Grinnellii tolerate drought?A: Yes, Penstemon Grinnellii has a deep taproot that allows it to survive in dry conditions.Q: How often should I water Penstemon Grinnellii?A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.Q: What is the best time to plant Penstemon Grinnellii?A: The best time to plant Penstemon Grinnellii is in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and the temperatures are cooler.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants that you may also be interested in:

• Penstemon Azureus
• Penstemon Grandiflorus
• Penstemon Eatonii
• Penstemon Barbatus

References

• https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/penstemon_grinnellii.shtml
• https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEGR4
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/penstemon/growing-penstemon-grinnellii.htm
• https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/penstemon/penstemon-grinnellii