Contents
Description
Penstemon Barbatus, commonly known as Beardtongue or Scarlet Bugler, is a beautiful flowering perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This plant is native to North America, particularly the southwestern region of the United States and northern Mexico. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with bright red or pink tubular flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
| Species | Penstemon Barbatus |
Appearance
Penstemon Barbatus has a bushy and upright growth habit, with lance-shaped leaves that are up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are arranged in loose clusters at the top of the stems and have a tubular shape with five lobes. They can be up to 2 inches long and come in shades of bright red or pink, with white or yellow markings inside the throat. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
To care for Penstemon Barbatus, you should provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Penstemon Barbatus is hardy in zones 5-8 and can be propagated by division or from seed.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Barbatus is generally a healthy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot if grown in conditions that are too damp or humid. The plant can also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Penstemon Barbatus is native to the southwestern region of the United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in rocky or gravelly soils in open areas, meadows, and woodlands. The plant is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Barbatus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Penstemon Barbatus is generally deer-resistant due to its bitter taste and toxic compounds.
Q: How often should I water Penstemon Barbatus?
A: Penstemon Barbatus requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Water the plant deeply once a week or more often if the soil is dry.
Q: Can Penstemon Barbatus grow in containers?
A: Yes, Penstemon Barbatus can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide good drainage.
Q: How do I propagate Penstemon Barbatus?
A: Penstemon Barbatus can be propagated by division or from seed. Divide the plant in the spring or fall, or collect the seeds after the flowers have faded and plant them in the fall or early spring.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Heterophyllus
- Penstemon Strictus
References
- “Penstemon Barbatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j180.
- “Penstemon Barbatus.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/penstemon-barbatus.
- “Beardtongue (Penstemon Barbatus).” Better Homes & Gardens, www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/beardtongue/.
