Longsepal Beardtongue
(Penstemon calycosus)
Longsepal Beardtongue (Penstemon calycosus)
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Mason Brock (Masebrock)
Public domain
Image By:
Mason Brock (Masebrock)
Recorded By:
Copyright:
Public domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Mason Brock (Masebrock) | License Type: Public domain | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/public-domain/ | Uploader: Masebrock | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Penstemon_calycosus_Kentucky.jpg | Notes: |
































Estimated Native Range
Summary
Penstemon calycosus, commonly known as Longsepal Beardtongue, is a perennial herb that can be deciduous or semi-deciduous, native to open woodlands and prairie margins in the East-Central United States. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). Longsepal Beardtongue has a clumping form with erect stems and lance-shaped leaves. From late spring to early summer, it produces tubular purple flowers with extended sepals, which are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.
This species is valued for its attractive flowers and ability to adapt to a range of garden conditions. It is often used in perennial borders, native plant gardens, and as a nectar source in pollinator-friendly landscapes. Longsepal Beardtongue prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. While it thrives in full sun, it can also perform well in part shade. It is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, but powdery mildew and root rot can occur if conditions are too moist.CC BY-SA 4.0
This species is valued for its attractive flowers and ability to adapt to a range of garden conditions. It is often used in perennial borders, native plant gardens, and as a nectar source in pollinator-friendly landscapes. Longsepal Beardtongue prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. While it thrives in full sun, it can also perform well in part shade. It is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, but powdery mildew and root rot can occur if conditions are too moist.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 1.5-2.5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, Purple
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Open woodlands and prairie margins
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: Penstemon calycosus , Penstemon laevigatus subsp. calycosus , Penstemon laevigatus var. calycosus , Penstemon smallii var. calycosus
GBIF Accepted Name: Penstemon calycosus Small