Southern Penstemon is a native herbaceous perennial with several flowering stems coming from its basal rosette of green foliage that earns a red tint in winter. Small two-lipped pinkish to purple flowers with purple striped white throats bloom in late spring into summer. Grows best in partial sun and dry to medium well-drained soil. Heat and drought tolerant.
Penstemon is a host for the Baltimore Checkerspot, and supports the specialized bee Osmia distincta.
Type: |
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Origins: |
Southeast N. America; GA Native |
Height: |
1' - 3' |
Spread: |
1’ - 3' |
Spacing: |
2' |
USDA Hardiness Zone: |
5 - 9 |
Culture: |
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Bloom Color: |
Purple/Pink |
Season of Interest: |
MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance. No serious pests or diseases. Root rot can occur in poorly-drained soils.
LANDSCAPE USES: Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Rock Gardens, Xeriscape Gardens, Naturalized Areas, and Containers.
COMPANION PLANTS: Purple Coneflower, Little Bluestem, Giant Hyssop
IMAGE: Justin Meissen, Slender Beardtongue
*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.