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Description
Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is a hybrid of various Penstemon species, including P. hartwegii, P. cobaea, P. digitalis, and P. heterophyllus. This plant produces stunning spikes of deep purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers have a tubular shape and grow up to 2 inches long. The foliage is a bright green color and is lance-shaped.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
Appearance
The Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum plant can grow up to 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide. The flowers grow on spikes that can reach up to 3 feet tall. The blooms are deep purple and have white throats, making them stand out in any garden. The foliage is a bright green color and is lance-shaped, growing up to 4 inches long. The leaves are slightly hairy and have toothed edges.
Care Guide
Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is drought-tolerant but does best with regular watering. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every spring, and prune back the flowering spikes after they have finished blooming. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. In colder climates, it may require some winter protection, such as a layer of mulch or covering with a cloth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, thrips, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soaps or oils. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly draining, so make sure to plant it in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum is native to North America, where it can be found growing in dry, rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant is commonly used in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum?
A: This plant is drought-tolerant but does best with regular watering. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: Can Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, this plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Q: When should I prune back the flowering spikes on Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum?
A: Prune back the flowering spikes after they have finished blooming to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Q: What is the size of Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum?
A: This plant can grow up to 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide.
Related Plants
- Penstemon ‘Alice Hindley’
- Penstemon ‘Blackbird’
- Penstemon ‘Hidcote Pink’
- Penstemon ‘Raven’
References
- “Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2021.
- “Penstemon ‘Pensham Plum Jerkum’.” Gardenia. Gardenia.net, n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2021.
- “Penstemon Pensham Plum Jerkum.” White Flower Farm. White Flower Farm, n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2021.
