Penstemon digitalis

Common Names

Beardtongue, Foxglove Beardtongue

Summary

Penstemon digitalis, commonly known as foxglove beardtongue or tall white beardtongue, is a clump-forming perennial in the Plantaginaceae family native to the eastern and southeastern United States. It forms neat clumps with glossy green leaves and tall flower spikes bearing white to pale pink tubular flowers in panicles, blooming from late spring to early summer and attracting bees and hummingbirds. Plants reach about 2–4 feet in height and 1–2 feet in width, prefer full sun and well-drained soil, tolerate clay soils, and are drought-tolerant once established. Deer-resistant and self-seeding can occur in ideal conditions.

For cultivation, plant in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade; propagate by seed in late winter or spring or by softwood cuttings in early summer, with deadheading after flowering to prolong vigor. Hardy zones are 3–8; the plant may spread somewhat in a garden but is not considered invasive, and occasional slug, snail, or fungal issues may occur in overly wet soils.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

24 inches-4 feet

Spread

12-24 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun to Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained loamy soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil.

Soil pH

pH below 6.0, acidic soil is ideal for Penstemon digitalis

Bloom Color

White, pale lavender, purple, and pink

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Green, some cultivars such as Husker Red have maroon foliage.

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Vigorous

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds