Penstemon spectabilis

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Royal Beard Tongue

 
California Native Plant
Plant photo of: Penstemon spectabilis
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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!

 

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

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:

Check your irrigation controller once a month, and adjust as necessary.

Most plants require only one-third as much water in winter as they do in summer.