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Description
Penstemon Eriantherus, also known as Velvetleaf Beardtongue, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to North America, particularly in the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains regions. It can grow up to 2 feet in height and 1 foot in width. The plant features lance-shaped leaves and delicate, tubular flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers are typically pink or lavender in color with a white throat and are arranged in dense, terminal clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
Penstemon Eriantherus has lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are dark green in color and have a velvety texture on the upper surface. The plant produces delicate, tubular flowers that are typically pink or lavender in color with a white throat. The flowers are arranged in dense, terminal clusters and bloom from May to July. The plant can grow up to 2 feet in height and 1 foot in width.
Care Guide
Penstemon Eriantherus requires moderate care and maintenance. Here are some important things to keep in mind:Water: The plant requires regular watering, particularly during the summer months. However, it is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage healthy growth.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in weak growth and fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Penstemon Eriantherus is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Eriantherus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, the plant can be attractive to aphids and spider mites, particularly in hot, dry weather. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Penstemon Eriantherus is native to North America, particularly in the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains regions. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Eriantherus a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Penstemon Eriantherus is a good plant for attracting pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies.Q: Can Penstemon Eriantherus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Penstemon Eriantherus can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should Penstemon Eriantherus be fertilized?
A: Penstemon Eriantherus does not require regular fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage healthy growth.Q: How tall does Penstemon Eriantherus grow?
A: Penstemon Eriantherus can grow up to 2 feet in height.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Penstemon Eriantherus:
- Penstemon Cobaea
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Rocky Mountain Blue
References
- “Penstemon eriantherus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m480 (accessed August 18, 2021).
- “Penstemon eriantherus.” North Carolina State University Extension. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/penstemon-eriantherus/ (accessed August 18, 2021).
- “Penstemon eriantherus.” Plant Database. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEER (accessed August 18, 2021).
