Penstemon digitalis

Penstemon digitalis, commonly known as foxglove beardtongue, is a herbaceous perennial plant in the family Plantaginaceae. Native to North America, it thrives in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. This plant grows up to 3 feet tall and features lance-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The flowers of Penstemon digitalis are tubular with five lobes and exhibit a white color with hints of pink or lavender. They bloom from late spring through early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Historically, Native Americans have used Penstemon digitalis for medicinal purposes, treating ailments such as coughs, sore throats, and fever. Additionally, it is popular in gardens for its attractive flowers and pollinator-friendly properties. In summary, Penstemon digitalis is an easy-to-grow perennial that enhances garden beauty and provides ecological benefits by attracting pollinators.

🌳 Foxglove beardtongue is a popular choice for summer flower gardens, celebrated for its striking blooms that attract pollinators. This plant is commonly placed behind border plants, where its tall flower spikes make a dramatic statement when in bloom. It is often paired with delphiniums to create a vibrant flowering backdrop or mixed with shorter perennials like coneflowers and salvias to highlight the contrasting heights of the plants.

🎭 Stateliness, Youth

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Penstemon

Family

Plantaginaceae

Hardiness Zone

4-8

Mature Height

0.91 m to 1.52 m

Mature Spread

46 cm to 49 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Purple

Leaf Type

Semi-evergreen, Deciduous

Flower Color

White

Flower Size

0.20 cm to 0.25 cm

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Planting Time

Spring

Harvest Time

Mid summer

Tags (7)

Common Names (8)