Species bearded penstemon
pink flowers with green leaves and yellow-green stems

bearded penstemon

Penstemon barbatus 'Elfin Pink'

Bearded Penstemon (Penstemon barbatus ‘Elfin Pink’) is an attractive, low-growing plant. It produces vibrant pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The long, tube-like petals are edged in pale yellow, with white, furry “beards” on the lower lip. These are easy-to-care-for plants with a compact form that make them ideal for growing in borders, containers, or rock gardens. They thrive in full sun and are tolerant of dry soils—making them an excellent choice for xeriscaping projects. Best of all, they’re deer-resistant and attractive to beneficial pollinators.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Pink / red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,pink

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bearded Penstemon (Penstemon barbatus 'Elfin Pink') should be watered once a week. To water the plant, moisten the soil thoroughly, so that about half of the potting mix is damp to the touch. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the summer or in warmer climates, Bearded Penstemon may require more frequent watering. Make sure to not over water the plant as this can cause root rot or other problems.

sunlight

Bearded penstemon (Penstemon barbatus 'Elfin Pink') is a plant species that requires full sun in order to thrive. This means that it should receive direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day, preferably during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon when the sunlight is strongest. The best time for the plant to receive sunlight is between 10 am and 6 pm. During the summer, it may need additional protection from the hot afternoon sun, such as shading or covering. In the winter, it may also need more protection from the cold, bright sun.

pruning

Bearded penstemon (Penstemon barbatus 'Elfin Pink') is a hardy, long-blooming perennial that can tolerate a range of environmental conditions. Pruning is important to help the plants maintain structure and health. To ensure your bearded penstemon remains healthy and produces an abundance of flowers, it is important to prune it regularly and correctly. This particular species should be pruned every year right after the flowering season usually in early to mid-summer. Start by cutting off the blooms that have finished flowering. This is important to discourage the plant from going to seed and using its energy. Next, prune away any dead, spindly, or diseased stems. Lastly, trim back any stems that are out of shape or growing too vigorously. Aim for no more than 2-thirds of the total canopy or up to 1-half on sturdy stems. These are just guidelines so trim as needed to achieve your desired shape. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears and make your cuts just above a leaf node to help promote new growth. Bearded penstemon is relatively easy to prune but it is important to stick to a regular schedule and make sure the cuts are clean.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Bearded penstemon typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Bearded penstemon typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map