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Description
Penstemon Rupicola, commonly known as Rock Penstemon, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to the western United States and can be found in high-altitude rocky areas such as cliffs, talus slopes, and rocky meadows. The plant has narrow, lance-shaped leaves and produces tall, slender stems that bear clusters of tubular, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, lavender, or purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
| Species | Penstemon Rupicola |
Appearance
The Rock Penstemon plant can reach a height of up to 2 feet and has a spread of up to 1 foot. The leaves are typically 3-4 inches long and are narrow and lance-shaped, with a slightly toothed margin. The flowers are tubular and bell-shaped, with five lobes and two lips. They are typically 1-2 inches long and can be pink, lavender, or purple in color. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and can attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
Rock Penstemon is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some guidelines:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but be sure not to overwater as this can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and fertility.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to part shade. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
- Hardiness Zones: Rock Penstemon is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rock Penstemon is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can occasionally infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Rock Penstemon is native to the western United States and can be found in high-altitude rocky areas such as cliffs, talus slopes, and rocky meadows. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to part shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rock Penstemon a good plant for attracting wildlife?
A: Yes, the plant’s tubular flowers can attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.
Q: Can Rock Penstemon tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers regular watering, but can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: How often should Rock Penstemon be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once per year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How does Rock Penstemon spread?
A: The plant can spread by self-seeding, but can also be propagated by division in the fall.
Related Plants
- Penstemon Barbatus
- Penstemon Digitalis
- Penstemon Grandiflorus
- Penstemon Hartwegii
References
- “Penstemon Rupicola.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f410
- “Rock Penstemon.” Colorado State University Extension. https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/rock-penstemon-7-232/
- “Penstemon Rupicola.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PERU2
