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Description
Penstemon Jamesii, commonly known as James’ Penstemon, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is a perennial herb that is native to the western United States, particularly in Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. This plant has a slender stem that grows up to 60cm tall, with small, tubular flowers that bloom in early summer. The flowers are typically blue or purple and are attractive to bees and other pollinators. Penstemon Jamesii is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and easy-to-care-for nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The leaves of Penstemon Jamesii are lance-shaped and grow up to 12cm long. The flowers are tubular, about 2.5cm long, and usually blue or purple in color. The blooms are arranged in dense spikes at the top of the stem, with each spike containing several flowers. The plant typically grows up to 60cm tall and 30cm wide. The foliage is green and glossy, and the flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Penstemon Jamesii is an easy-to-care-for plant that is suitable for most gardens. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Penstemon Jamesii prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or sand to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Penstemon Jamesii is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Jamesii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent crown rot.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Penstemon Jamesii is native to the western United States, particularly in Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. It is commonly found in dry, rocky areas and can tolerate drought and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Penstemon Jamesii?
A: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Penstemon Jamesii?
A: Penstemon Jamesii is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: What is the best soil for Penstemon Jamesii?
A: Penstemon Jamesii prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or sand to improve drainage.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Penstemon Jamesii?
A: Penstemon Jamesii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, crown rot, and root rot.
Related Plants
- Penstemon strictus
- Penstemon digitalis
- Penstemon barbatus
- Penstemon eatonii
References
- “Penstemon Jamesii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 9, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c294.
- “Penstemon Jamesii.” PlantSelect. Accessed August 9, 2021. https://plantselect.org/plant/penstemon-jamesii/.
- “Penstemon Jamesii.” Wildflower Center. Accessed August 9, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEJA2.
