Contents
Description
Penstemon Hidcote Pink, also known as Pink Hidcote Beardtongue, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This plant is native to North America and is known for its showy, tubular, pink flowers that bloom from late spring to summer. The plant grows up to 2-3 feet tall and has an upright habit. The foliage is dark green and lance-shaped, and the flowers are borne on tall stems that rise above the foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
Penstemon Hidcote Pink has an upright habit and can grow up to 2-3 feet tall. The foliage is dark green and lance-shaped, and the flowers are tubular and pink. The flowers are borne on tall stems that rise above the foliage. This plant blooms from late spring to summer and is a great addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Penstemon Hidcote Pink is a low-maintenance plant and is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and blooming.- Soil: Penstemon Hidcote Pink prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Penstemon Hidcote Pink is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Hidcote Pink is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to the following:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powder-like substance to form on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and avoid dusty conditions.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the foliage and flowers of the plant. To prevent slugs and snails, use slug bait or set up beer traps.
Habitat
Penstemon Hidcote Pink is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. This plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Hidcote Pink a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Penstemon Hidcote Pink is a low-maintenance plant and is easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Penstemon Hidcote Pink be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Penstemon Hidcote Pink can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should Penstemon Hidcote Pink be fertilized?
A: Penstemon Hidcote Pink should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How tall does Penstemon Hidcote Pink grow?
A: Penstemon Hidcote Pink can grow up to 2-3 feet tall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Penstemon Hidcote Pink:- Penstemon Digitalis (Foxglove Beardtongue)- Penstemon Grandiflorus (Large Beardtongue)- Penstemon Barbatus (Beardtongue)
References
– “Penstemon Hidcote Pink.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b661.- “Penstemon Hidcote Pink.” Plant Delights Nursery. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/penstemon-hidcote-pink-beard-tongue.
