Contents
Description
Penstemon Heterodoxus is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is commonly known as the foothill beardtongue and is native to western North America, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot. It produces spikes of tubular-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are usually blue or purple, but they can also be pink, white, or red. The plant’s leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and have a bluish-green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The Penstemon Heterodoxus plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that have a bluish-green color. The spikes of tubular-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer are usually blue or purple, but they can also be pink, white, or red. The flowers are about 1 inch long and have a five-lobed corolla. The plant produces capsules that contain small black seeds.
Care Guide
Penstemon Heterodoxus is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: This plant requires moderate watering. Water it regularly during the growing season but reduce watering in winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Penstemon Heterodoxus plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Proper watering and good air circulation can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Penstemon Heterodoxus is native to western North America, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. It grows in dry, rocky soils, and is found in open woods, meadows, and foothills. The plant is adapted to the hot, dry summers and mild winters of its native habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Heterodoxus a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Q: Does Penstemon Heterodoxus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Q: Can Penstemon Heterodoxus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers, as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: Does Penstemon Heterodoxus require pruning?
A: This plant does not require pruning, but it can be deadheaded to promote more blooms.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Hartwegii
- Penstemon Spectabilis
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEHE3
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/penstemon/growing-penstemon-plants.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/penstemon_heterodoxus.shtml
