Penstemon spectabilis

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Royal Beard Tongue

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. Native to southern California from 2-6000' Best planted in the fall. Spring to summer bloomer.

Plant Type

Shrub, Perennial

Height Range

1-3'

Width 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, Half

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

Cut Flowers, Filler, Mass Planting, Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

Hummingbirds

Water Saving Tip:

Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems.

Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.