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Description
Penstemon Gracilentus, commonly known as slender penstemon, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is a perennial herb that is native to western North America, including the states of California, Nevada, and Utah. The plant grows up to a height of 1 to 2 feet and produces showy, tubular flowers that are typically pink or purple in color. These flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
Penstemon Gracilentus has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are typically 1 to 3 inches long and grow in opposite pairs along the stem. The stem of the plant is typically upright and slender, with a reddish or purplish tint. The flowers of the plant are tubular in shape and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. They are typically pink or purple in color and have a white throat with red or purple stripes. The flowers are about 1 inch long and have five lobes that curl back at the tips.
Care Guide
Penstemon Gracilentus is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this beautiful plant:
Water: Penstemon Gracilentus prefers well-drained soil and does not like to sit in water. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Fertilization: You can fertilize Penstemon Gracilentus with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Soil: Penstemon Gracilentus prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you can amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Penstemon Gracilentus prefers full sun to partial shade. If you live in a hot climate, afternoon shade can help protect the plant from the intense heat.
Hardiness Zones: Penstemon Gracilentus is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Gracilentus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
Aphids: Aphids can infest the plant and suck the sap from the leaves and stems. You can control them by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using an insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: Spider mites can also infest the plant and cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. You can control them by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using an insecticidal soap.
Crown rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Penstemon Gracilentus is native to western North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, slopes, and rocky outcrops. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Penstemon Gracilentus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Penstemon Gracilentus can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should I prune Penstemon Gracilentus?
A: You can prune Penstemon Gracilentus after it has finished blooming to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Q: How long does Penstemon Gracilentus live?
A: Penstemon Gracilentus is a perennial plant that can live for several years under the right conditions.
Q: Can Penstemon Gracilentus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Penstemon Gracilentus can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Penstemon Gracilentus:
- Penstemon Cobaea
- Penstemon Eatoni
- Penstemon Digitalis
References
- “Penstemon gracilentus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c465.
- “Penstemon gracilentus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEGR7.
- “Penstemon gracilentus.” Plant Database. Accessed September 2021. http://www.plantsystematics.org/imgs/robbin/r/Plantaginaceae_Penstemon_gracilentus_21175.html.
