Beardtongue ‘Cambridge Mix’ Penstemon barbatus

Unavailable in 2024

Penstemons, related to Chelone, were recognized as a separate genus in 1762. The name refers to the unusual fact that all its species have flowers with five stamens--pente stemon in Greek.

Penstemon is the largest genus of flowering plants native to continental North America. Of the 250 species, all but two are found here. The general rule among Penstemons is the larger the flower, the more tender the plant. Fortunately, the newer hybrids have been bred with an eye to greater hardiness.

Penstemon offer large spikes of tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Most bloom heavily in early summer, and a few continue to produce fresh spikes into fall.

These hardy and tender, clump forming perennials bring vertical contrast to the typical rounded, mounded fare of perennial borders. They do not tolerate having wet feet over winter.