bearded penstemon
Penstemon barbatus
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Minimum
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Rose red Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Bearded penstemon (Penstemon barbatus) should be watered deeply and thoroughly at least once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings - about 1-2 inches deep for established plants. In hot climates, more frequent watering may be necessary. Depending on the soil type and climate, water the plant in the morning or late afternoon, and avoid getting the foliage wet. In summer, supplemental water may be needed to ensure good health.
sunlight
Bearded Penstemon (Penstemon barbatus) plants grow best in full sunlight, but they can also tolerate some partial shade. For best results, plant them in a spot that receives at least 8 hours of direct sun per day. When grown in full sun, they will produce the best bloom and foliage. They can also survive in some shade, but they will produce fewer flowers and leaves. The optimal time of day for sun exposure is between the hours of 10am-4pm, when the sun is at its strongest. Bearded Penstemon will benefit with extra sunlight during the most active growth season, but will need sunlight all year-round, as they are a perennial that will remain in the ground year after year.
pruning
Bearded Penstemon (Penstemon barbatus) should be pruned lightly once a year, in early spring. Pruning should involve removing dead, damaged, or crossed branches to ensure the plant stays healthy and looks its best. Pruning should only remove about a third of the total growth and very little foliage. This same pruning can be done in addition to an annual deadheading to encourage more blooms.
