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Description
Penstemon Osprey, also known as Osprey beardtongue or Penstemon x gloxinioides ‘Osprey’, is a hybrid perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. This plant is a cross between Penstemon cobaea and Penstemon palmeri, and it was first developed in the 1980s by a horticulturist named Dale Lindgren. The plant produces beautiful white tubular flowers with purple throats that bloom from late spring to early summer. It is a favorite among gardeners because of its striking appearance and easy maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
Penstemon Osprey grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a bushy habit and deep green leaves that are 6 inches long. The plant produces tall spikes of white tubular flowers with purple throats that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 1 inch long and have five lobes, with two upper lobes that are fused into a hood. The plant is a favorite among gardeners because of its striking appearance and easy maintenance.
Care Guide
To care for Penstemon Osprey, you need to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips to help you:
Water
Penstemon Osprey prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not soggy. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
You can fertilize Penstemon Osprey with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.
Soil
Penstemon Osprey prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can improve the soil quality by adding compost or other organic matter to the planting hole.
Sunlight
Penstemon Osprey prefers full sunlight to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Penstemon Osprey is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9. Make sure to choose a planting location that is appropriate for your climate.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Osprey is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, make sure to provide the plant with adequate air circulation and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Penstemon Osprey is native to North America, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats such as mountain slopes and canyons. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, and it can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Penstemon Osprey suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, Penstemon Osprey can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Penstemon Osprey?
A: You can fertilize Penstemon Osprey once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can I propagate Penstemon Osprey by division?
A: Yes, you can divide Penstemon Osprey in the spring or fall by digging up the plant and dividing the root ball into smaller sections.
Q: How tall does Penstemon Osprey grow?
A: Penstemon Osprey can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Related Plants
– Penstemon cobaea- Penstemon palmeri- Penstemon barbatus- Penstemon digitalis- Penstemon strictus
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden: Penstemon x gloxinioides ‘Osprey’- North Carolina State University: Penstemon x gloxinioides ‘Osprey’- Royal Horticultural Society: Penstemon x gloxinioides ‘Osprey’- University of Minnesota Extension: Penstemon x gloxinioides ‘Osprey’
