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Description
Penstemon Humilis, commonly known as the low penstemon, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This plant is native to the western United States and can be found growing in rocky slopes, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The low penstemon grows up to 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide. This plant has green leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped, and its stem is covered with fine hairs. The low penstemon produces beautiful purple flowers that bloom from June to August. These flowers have two lips and a tubular shape, and they grow in clusters at the top of the stem.
Care Guide
The low penstemon is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to help you take care of your low penstemon:
- Water: Water your low penstemon regularly, especially during dry spells. This plant prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your low penstemon once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears.
- Soil: The low penstemon prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting this plant in heavy clay soil.
- Sunlight: The low penstemon prefers full sun to partial shade. This plant can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: The low penstemon can grow in hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The low penstemon is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues you may encounter:
- Aphids: These insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The low penstemon is native to the western United States and can be found growing in rocky slopes, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. This plant prefers dry, well-drained soil and can tolerate heat and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the low penstemon grow in shade?
A: Yes, the low penstemon can grow in partial shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.
Q: Does the low penstemon attract bees?
A: Yes, the low penstemon is a great plant for attracting bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize my low penstemon?
A: Fertilize your low penstemon once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the low penstemon?
A: The low penstemon can grow in hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Related Plants
- Penstemon angustifolius
- Penstemon barbatus
- Penstemon digitalis
- Penstemon eatonii
References
- “Penstemon Humilis (Low Penstemon).” High Country Gardens, https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/penstemon/penstemon-humilis.
- “Penstemon Humilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286513&isprofile=0&basic=penstemon%20humilis.
- “Penstemon Humilis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PEHU.
