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Description
Penstemon Secundiflorus is a species of flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to North America and is commonly known as rock penstemon or beardtongue. This perennial plant is known for its attractive flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. It grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide and has narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Penstemon Secundiflorus is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and naturalized areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
Penstemon Secundiflorus is a clump-forming perennial that grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 4 inches long and 0.5 inches wide. The leaves are green and slightly hairy. The plant produces long, slender stems that are topped with clusters of tubular flowers. The flowers are typically pink, purple, blue, or white and bloom from late spring to early summer. They are about 1 inch long and have two lips, with the upper lip being larger and more curved than the lower lip. The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water
Penstemon Secundiflorus prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. It is important not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Fertilization
Penstemon Secundiflorus does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
Penstemon Secundiflorus prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does best in sandy or loamy soil.
Sunlight
Penstemon Secundiflorus prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones
Penstemon Secundiflorus is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Secundiflorus is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
Penstemon Secundiflorus is native to North America and can be found in rocky or sandy soils in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers dry, sunny locations and is often found growing on slopes or in rocky crevices.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Secundiflorus a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Penstemon Secundiflorus is attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.Q: Can Penstemon Secundiflorus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Penstemon Secundiflorus can be grown in containers, but it requires well-drained soil and regular watering.Q: How often should I prune Penstemon Secundiflorus?
A: Penstemon Secundiflorus does not require regular pruning, but it can be cut back in the fall to promote new growth in the spring.Q: How do I propagate Penstemon Secundiflorus?
A: Penstemon Secundiflorus can be propagated by division in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
- Penstemon digitalis
- Penstemon barbatus
- Penstemon rydbergii
- Penstemon grandiflorus
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Penstemon secundiflorus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277542&isprofile=0&
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Penstemon secundiflorus. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PESE12
- Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Penstemon secundiflorus. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PESE12
