Hairy Beardtongue
penstemon hirsutus
Also known as: ["Hairy Penstemon","Beardtongue"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial native to North America, known for its tubular-shaped flowers and hairy stems.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Penstemon |
| Botanical Name: | Penstemon hirsutus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or raised beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers as they fade; light pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates; adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in filtered light indoors if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to diffuse strong light; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy or sandy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid over-amending with heavy organic matter; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and can handle light frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F/21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut spent flower stalks at the base.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure proper drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; add fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat; leaf discoloration or dieback in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or tissue damage in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from cold drafts; move potted plants to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use shade cloth in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid foliage contact; flush soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPenstemon hirsutus is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPenstemon hirsutus is not considered toxic to dogs. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPenstemon hirsutus is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Penstemon hirsutus grow?
A: It typically grows to 1–3 feet in height.
Q: Does Penstemon hirsutus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Penstemon hirsutus?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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