Penstemon spectabilis

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Royal Beard Tongue

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Information by: Jerry Sortomme Editor Photographer: Susan Frommer

Description

This shrubby perennial produces spectacular, blue purple, tubular flowers on spikes, which is quite attractive to hummingbirds. Royal Beard Tongue can reach a mature size of about 3'-4' tall and wide. It is native to Southern California. It is best planted in the fall and blooms from spring through summer. It prefers well draining soil, full sun and low watering. It looks great in borders. Do not overwater!

Plant Type

Shrub, Perennial

Height Range

3-6'

Flower Color

Blue, Lavender, Purple

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Green, Grey Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam, Rocky

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Perennial Border, Shrub Border, Parking Strip, Patio, Raised Planter, With Rocks

Special Uses

Container, Cut Flowers, Filler, Mass Planting, Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

Hummingbirds

Water Saving Tip:

Give your sprinkler system a checkup when turning it on in the spring and occasionally during the summer.

Trim branches that are obstructing spray patterns and raise sprinklers that are too low for spray to clear the grass.