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Description
Penstemon Angustifolius, commonly known as narrowleaf penstemon, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to the western United States and can be found growing in open woods, rocky slopes, and gravelly areas. The plant has a narrow, upright growth habit and typically grows up to 2 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The narrowleaf penstemon has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 inches long. The leaves are usually green but can also be tinged with purple. The plant produces tall spikes of tubular, pink to purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers have five lobes, with the lower lobe being the largest.
Care Guide
To care for narrowleaf penstemon, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out slightly between watering.Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Narrowleaf penstemon is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Narrowleaf penstemon can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. The plant may also attract spider mites, leafhoppers, and aphids. To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy and free of stress.
Habitat
Narrowleaf penstemon is native to the western United States and can be found growing in open woods, rocky slopes, and gravelly areas. The plant is well adapted to dry, arid conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can narrowleaf penstemon be grown in containers?
A: Yes, narrowleaf penstemon can be grown in containers, but it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and moderate watering.
Q: How often should narrowleaf penstemon be fertilized?
A: Narrowleaf penstemon should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is narrowleaf penstemon deer-resistant?
A: Yes, narrowleaf penstemon is deer-resistant and can be a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.
Q: Can narrowleaf penstemon be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, narrowleaf penstemon can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Barbatus
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Strictus
References
- “Penstemon Angustifolius.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e615.
- “Penstemon Angustifolius.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1212/.
- “Narrowleaf Penstemon.” Better Homes and Gardens, www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/narrowleaf-penstemon/.
