Species bellflower beardtongue
cluster of purple-white, trumpet-like flowers with white filaments, and army-green sepals

bellflower beardtongue

Penstemon campanulatus

Bellflower beardtongue (Penstemon campanulatus) is a beautiful flowering endemic to western North America. The plant features thin, upright stalks that can reach 3 feet in height and deep purple-blue blooms in late late spring. These flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, providing a vibrant splash of color to wooded areas. Bellflower beardtongue is a hardy species that is well adapted to dry or moist soils and full sun or partial shade. It is deer-resistant, making it perfect for the home garden as it won't attract foraging wildlife. Bellflower beardtongue is an interesting and distinctive plant species that is sure to bring fascinating beauty to any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7 - 10

Flowers:

Purple-pink to violet Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Frequent and deep watering is important for bellflower beardtongue. It should be watered thoroughly once every 4-5 days or when the top 1-2 inches of soil is completely dry. During periods of hot and dry weather, more frequent watering may be necessary. Make sure to avoid over-saturating the soil, as this can cause root rot. In the winter when growth slows, scale back watering to every 7-10 days, and only water when the soil is dry.

sunlight

Bellflower beardtongue plants require full sun or 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. This species prefers to grow in areas with sandy, loamy, or rocky soil that is well-drained. Ideally, the sunlight should be most intense during the morning and afternoon, with some light shade during the hottest midday hours. In areas with high heat and strong winds, it is recommended to provide some protection with light shade cover.

pruning

Bellflower beardtongue should be pruned in late summer, after flowering for most varieties. This will encourage new growth and, in turn, help promote re-flowering. Pruning should only take away a third of the plant's growth because the shrub's main blooming period is in the spring and the buds for new blooms are set in the late summer. Prune at the branch tips as needed to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or weak branches. To promote new growth, lightly trim the sides of the shrub in the late spring or midsummer, making sure that too much is not cut away. Pruning this species can be beneficial to promote a bushier, fuller plant.

Season

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

Penstemon campanulatus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Penstemon campanulatus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map