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Description
Penstemon Ovatus, commonly known as Rocky Mountain Penstemon, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the Rocky Mountains, from Montana to New Mexico. The plant has an erect growth habit and can reach a height of up to two feet. The leaves of the plant are narrow and pointed, and the flowers are tubular in shape and come in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The Rocky Mountain Penstemon has an attractive appearance and is often used in gardens and landscapes. The plant has an upright growth habit with narrow, pointed leaves that are up to three inches long. The flowers of the plant are tubular in shape and come in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. The flowers are about an inch long and are arranged in clusters along the stem. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer and can continue blooming into the fall.
Care Guide
The Rocky Mountain Penstemon is a relatively easy plant to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rocky Mountain Penstemon is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Rocky Mountain Penstemon is native to North America and is commonly found in the Rocky Mountains, from Montana to New Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, open woods, and rocky slopes. The plant is well adapted to the harsh conditions of its natural habitat and is drought tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Rocky Mountain Penstemon a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the Rocky Mountain Penstemon is an excellent plant for attracting pollinators, especially bees and hummingbirds.
Q: Can the Rocky Mountain Penstemon be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Rocky Mountain Penstemon can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should the Rocky Mountain Penstemon be watered?
A: The Rocky Mountain Penstemon should be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: When is the best time to plant the Rocky Mountain Penstemon?
A: The best time to plant the Rocky Mountain Penstemon is in the spring or fall, when the temperatures are cooler and there is more moisture in the soil.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Barbatus
- Penstemon Hartwegii
References
- “Penstemon Ovatus – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b739.
- “Rocky Mountain Penstemon.” Colorado State University Extension, www.ext.colostate.edu/ptlk/1737.html.
- “Penstemon Ovatus.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 19 Jan. 2022, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Penstemon_ovatus.
