Contents
Description
Penstemon Labrosus, commonly known as the Showy Beardtongue, is a perennial plant native to western North America. It belongs to the family Plantaginaceae and is characterized by its showy tubular flowers, which bloom in early summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The Penstemon Labrosus plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has lance-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color and covered in fine hairs. The showy tubular flowers can be up to 2 inches long and come in shades of pink, purple, and lavender. The flowers have a white or yellow throat and are arranged in clusters at the ends of the stems.
Care Guide
Penstemon Labrosus requires well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and can be watered once or twice a week during hot and dry weather. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Penstemon Labrosus is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Labrosus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and prune away any affected leaves or stems.
Habitat
Penstemon Labrosus is native to western North America and can be found growing in rocky or gravelly soils in open woods, prairies, and meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: How long do the flowers of Penstemon Labrosus bloom?
A: The flowers of Penstemon Labrosus bloom from early summer to early fall.
Q: Does Penstemon Labrosus require full sun or partial shade?
A: Penstemon Labrosus requires full sun to partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Penstemon Labrosus?
A: Penstemon Labrosus is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Q: Is Penstemon Labrosus susceptible to any pests or diseases?
A: Penstemon Labrosus can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Cobaea
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Hartwegii
- Penstemon Hirsutus
References
- “Penstemon Labrosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280745.
- “Penstemon Labrosus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PELA4.
- “Penstemon Labrosus.” Plant Database. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/61885/.
