Newberry's Penstemon
penstemon newberryi
Also known as: ["Newberry's Beardtongue","Newberry's Penstemon"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to the western United States, known for its striking red or orange tubular flowers and drought tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Penstemon |
| Botanical Name: | Penstemon newberryi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season; perform a light shaping prune in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun is ideal; avoid deep shade; rotate pots for even light exposure; provide afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting foliage; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; water less in winter.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months during active growth
Fertilize sparingly to avoid root burn; apply in early morning or evening; stop fertilizing before winter.
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.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright 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 may 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 (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut spent flower stalks at the base; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); avoid overpotting.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water lightly after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; avoid overhead watering; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage if soil is waterlogged.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; provide winter protection with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold months.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPenstemon newberryi is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect feline physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPenstemon newberryi is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPenstemon newberryi is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Penstemon newberryi?
A: Propagate by seed in fall or early spring, or by division in early spring.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: Prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Penstemon newberryi attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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