Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple is a perennial plant that is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is a member of the Plantaginaceae family and is commonly referred to as Beardtongue due to its hairy stamen. This plant is a popular choice for gardeners due to its stunning display of purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Penstemon |
Appearance
The Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple plant grows up to 24 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and can reach up to 3 inches in length. The plant produces showy spikes of trumpet-shaped flowers that are purple in color and have a white throat. The flowers can grow up to 2 inches in length and bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant has a bushy growth habit and is attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall as this can encourage new growth that may not survive the winter.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does best in slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases to look out for:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and die. It can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, where it can be found growing in rocky, arid habitats such as deserts and foothills. It is adapted to hot and dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple is attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple tolerate shade?
A: Yes, Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
Q: How often should I water Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. However, avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Penstemon Mexicali Pike’s Peak Purple?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Penstemon digitalis ‘Husker Red’
- Penstemon barbatus ‘Coccineus’
- Penstemon ‘Dark Towers’
- Penstemon palmeri
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/penstemon-mexicali-pikes-peak-purple
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/penstemon/growing-penstemon-beardtongue.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281348&isprofile=0&basic=penstemon
