Penstemon 'Blue Riding Hood' Penstemon 'Blue Riding Hood' (PBR) (Riding Hood Series)

Water

Beardtongue, the common name for Penstemon 'Blue Riding Hood', requires consistent moisture but does not like to be waterlogged. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week, providing about one to two gallons depending on the size of the plant and the local climate conditions. During the heat of summer, you might need to water twice a week if the plant is in full sun and temperatures are high. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases; thus, water at the base of the plant. Reduce watering in the fall to help harden off the plant before winter.

Light

Beardtongue thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least six hours of sunlight each day being ideal. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive unfiltered morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, particularly in areas with very hot summers, to protect it from the most intense heat of the day.

Temperature

Beardtongue is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures but grows best when the temperature is between 60°F and 90°F. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -30°F. The ideal temperature conditions for the plant are moderate to warm during the growing season with cool to cold winters that help it go dormant and rest.

Pruning

Beardtongue should be pruned to promote bushiness and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. After the first killing frost, cut back the plant to about an inch above ground level to tidy up the garden and prepare it for winter. Pruning is also an opportunity to shape the plant and remove any weak or damaged stems.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Beardtongue prefers well-draining soil with a mixture of loam, sand, and compost. Aim for a soil pH of 6.0 to 8.0 for optimal growth and flowering.

Repotting

Beardtongue should be repotted every 3-4 years or when it outgrows its current container, ensuring fresh soil and space for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Beardtongue thrives in moderate humidity levels and does not require any specific humidity adjustments when grown outdoors in its preferred climate.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, ensure pot has drainage, avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade; protect from harsh winds; mulch to retain moisture.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Penstemon 'Blue Riding Hood', commonly known as Beardtongue, begins its life as a seed which, when sown in fertile, well-draining soil and exposed to at least partial sunlight, germinates to develop into a seedling. The young plant then enters a vigorous vegetative growth phase, establishing a strong root system and producing lance-shaped leaves and stems. As it matures, it transitions into the flowering stage, typically from late spring to early summer, where it produces its vivid blue, tubular flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, flowers develop into fruit capsules containing seeds that can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, thereby completing its reproductive cycle. During the autumn, the plant begins to die back as temperatures drop, entering a dormant phase particularly if it is in a region with cold winters, although it's a perennial and will regrow from its root system with the arrival of warm spring weather. Throughout its life, the Beardtongue requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, and may benefit from the removal of spent flower stalks to encourage further blooming and to maintain plant vigor.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: The Penstemon 'Blue Riding Hood', commonly known as Beardtongue, is often propagated through stem cuttings, a popular method because it helps maintain the characteristics of the parent plant. The optimal time for taking stem cuttings is late spring to early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by stem cuttings, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch piece, making sure there are several leaf nodes present. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder, and then insert it into a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist but not wet, and placed in indirect light. After a few weeks, roots should develop, at which point the new plant can slowly be acclimated to more direct light before eventually being planted outdoors.