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Description
Penstemon Leiophyllus, commonly known as the Smoothleaf Penstemon, is a perennial flowering plant that is native to western North America. This plant typically grows to about 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The stem of the plant is erect, slender, and branching, with narrow green leaves that grow up to 4 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The Smoothleaf Penstemon produces tubular flowers that are typically light pink, lavender, or purple in color. The flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stem, with each flower measuring about 1 inch long. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer. The leaves of the plant are narrow and elongated, measuring up to 4 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. They are green in color and grow in pairs along the stem.
Care Guide
The Smoothleaf Penstemon prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of soil types. It is also hardy in zones 4-8. Water the plant regularly during the first year after planting to help it establish roots. After that, it should only need watering during periods of extended drought.
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall. Prune the plant back after it has finished blooming to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Smoothleaf Penstemon is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or powdery mildew. These issues can be treated with insecticidal soap or fungicide.
Habitat
The Smoothleaf Penstemon is native to western North America, from British Columbia to California. It grows in a variety of habitats, including dry slopes, open woods, and grasslands. It is commonly found in rocky or gravelly soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Smoothleaf Penstemon be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is given sufficient sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should the Smoothleaf Penstemon be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized twice a year, in the spring and fall, with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How long does the Smoothleaf Penstemon bloom for?
A: The plant blooms from late spring to early summer.
Q: What is the best way to propagate the Smoothleaf Penstemon?
A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Hirsutus
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Barbatus
References
- “Penstemon leiophyllus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l640.
- “Penstemon leiophyllus.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:808341-1.
- “Penstemon leiophyllus.” United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PELE22.
