Species dew flower
purple-white flowers with lime leaves and stems

dew flower

Penstemon cobaea var. purpureus

The dew flower (Penstemon cobaea var. purpureus) is a deciduous perennial native to the midwestern United States. Growing 1 to 4 feet in height, this species has light green lance-shaped leaves and purple, tubular-shaped flowers that bloom throughout summer and early fall. Not requiring much water or care, this drought tolerant species attracts a variety of pollinators and butterflies. Deer and rabbits typically stay away, making this species a great choice for gardens that suffer from herbivore grazing. An excellent plant for low-maintenance xeriscaping and waterwise garden design.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Purple Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The dew flower prefers moderate levels of water, but cannot tolerate soggy soil. Water deeply once every week or 2, allowing the top 2 to 3 inches of soil to become dry before re-watering. In extremely hot weather, water the plant more frequently. Water in the morning or early evening to prevent evaporation and avoid water pooling on the leaves. If possible, water at the base of the plant rather than from overhead to reduce the risk of fungal infection and leaf scorch.

sunlight

The dew flower (Penstemon cobaea var. purpureus) needs at least 4 to 6 hours of full sunlight each day for optimal blooming and growth. If possible, it should be kept in direct sun for most of the day, and should not be too shaded. It should not be planted in a location where it will get more than 8 hours of direct sunlight a day, as this could cause the plant to become dried out and stressed. In addition, the plant should be placed in a spot that is protected from strong, direct winds.

pruning

For pruning dew flower (Penstemon cobaea var. purpureus), it’s best to prune in early spring before the plant blooms. Pruning should be done judiciously, as too much pruning can remove the flower buds for the coming season. A light pruning of around 1-third of the previous season’s growth is enough to encourage new growth. Remove old dead stems, as well as any overly spindly or weak stems. Cut just above a leaf joint for the best results. After it blooms in summer, it can be lightly pruned again to keep it neat and tidy.

Season

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

The dew flower typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

The dew flower typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map