Penstemon heterophyllus
TAXONOMY
FamilyPlantaginaceae
GenusPenstemon
Zone7
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Penstemon heterophyllus, commonly known as Foothill Penstemon or Beardtongue, is a perennial plant native to California. It is known for its vibrant blue to purple tubular flowers and is often found in chaparral and woodland habitats. The plant undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Foothill penstemon
Penstemon heterophyllus subsp. heterophyllus
Penstemon heterophyllus var. heterophyllus
Penstemon leucanthus
Penstemon spinulosus
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity40%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Foothill Penstemon thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It requires well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The plant benefits from low humidity and can tolerate drought conditions.Soil
Penstemon heterophyllus prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but thrives best in soil that is not overly rich in nutrients. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with a composition of 5-10-10 can be applied sparingly during the growing season. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Penstemon heterophyllus as it prefers to grow outdoors in its natural habitat. However, if grown in containers, repotting can be done in early spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in late fall or early spring, while cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer. Ensure the cuttings are taken from healthy, non-flowering stems.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for Penstemon heterophyllus to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Prune back the plant after flowering to remove spent blooms and any leggy growth.Toxicity
Penstemon heterophyllus is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. It is generally considered safe to grow in gardens where pets and children are present.Additional
Penstemon heterophyllus is a great addition to native plant gardens and attracts pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. It is also deer-resistant, making it a good choice for areas with wildlife.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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