Species beardtongue
Tubular, fiery-red flowers with white stamens, hairy, green stems, small, green, hairy leaves, and buds

beardtongue

Penstemon 'Prairie Fire'

Beardtongue, (Penstemon 'Prairie Fire'), is an attractive perennial plant with bright, tubular blossoms of red, pink and yellow. Its colorful petals attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a great plant for wildlife gardens. This species is a short-lived plant but it does well in sunny areas with well-drained soil. Pruning helps to keep the plant neat and tidy during the growing season. It also makes an excellent cut flower. With its drought-tolerant nature and showy blooms, beardtongue is a great addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Pinkish red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Water beardtongue (Penstemon 'Prairie Fire') deeply but infrequently. Water once per week, soaking the soil to a depth of at least 8 inches. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In hotter climates and during dry spells, you may need to water more frequently. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

sunlight

Penstemon 'Prairie Fire' benefits from full sun. It should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight throughout the day, preferably the morning sunlight. This plant does best in cooler climates and does not do well with extended periods of heat. It should avoid noon to afternoon sunlight as that can cause scorching in some areas. This species does best in a location that receives partial shade in the afternoon to shield the leaves from the intense light.

pruning

Beardtongue (Penstemon 'Prairie Fire') should be pruned in late winter or early spring, shortly before active growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged stems. Prune the plant to encourage a bushy shape by cutting back the stems by 1-third to 1-half. This will also encourage more blooms and help to shape the plant. After blooming, lightly trim off the spent flowers to keep the plant looking tidy.Deep, heavy pruning is not recommended, as this plant blooms on new growth.

Season

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

Penstemon 'Prairie Fire' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Penstemon 'Prairie Fire' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map