Penstemon 'Blue Spring' Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Spring'

Water

The Foothill Penstemon should be watered deeply to establish a strong root system when first planted, so the soil should be moistened thoroughly. Once established, it typically requires less water and should be ideally given about 1 inch of water weekly. In hot, dry periods, you may need to water twice a week, but always allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. It's important to avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent the spread of disease. A good practice is to check the soil moisture with your finger; if the top inch is dry, it's time to water.

Light

The Foothill Penstemon thrives in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It is best placed in a spot where morning sun is prominent as this can ensure vibrant flower production. Partial shade is tolerable, especially in the hottest parts of the day, but full sun is ideal for strongest growth and flowering.

Temperature

The Foothill Penstemon is hardy in a wide range of temperatures but tends to perform best in areas where daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. The plant can tolerate temperatures down to about 20°F, making it suitable for gardeners in cooler climates, while maximum temperature tolerance is typically around 90°F without additional stress such as drought or high humidity.

Pruning

Foothill Penstemon benefits from pruning to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and stimulate more blooms. Prune in early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and again after the first flush of flowers has faded to promote a second bloom. Regular deadheading throughout the blooming season will also help to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage more flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Foothill Penstemon thrives in well-drained soil with low fertility. The best mix is a combination of sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter, but overall very little compost, to mimic its native habitat. The ideal soil pH for Foothill Penstemon is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from about 6.0 to 7.5.

Repotting

Foothill Penstemon does not need frequent repotting and prefers to be undisturbed. Repot the plant every 2-3 years to refresh the soil or when it has outgrown its current container.

Humidity & Misting

Foothill Penstemon is tolerant of a range of humidity conditions and does well in moderately dry environments. It does not require high humidity and is well-suited to the typical atmospheric humidity found outdoors in its native range.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, minimal watering, and good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Place in full sun, protect from extreme cold.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Spring', commonly known as Foothill Penstemon, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when conditions are right, germinates in the soil. Once germinated, the young seedling emerges and establishes its root system while developing its first true leaves. As a perennial, it then enters a phase of vegetative growth, producing a rosette of leaves and stems that continue to grow and mature. Following this, the Foothill Penstemon enters the flowering stage typically in late spring or early summer, showcasing vibrant blue to violet blossoms that attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination occurs, the plant produces fruit in the form of capsules containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. With the arrival of cooler temperatures or adverse conditions, the plant may die back above ground, but the root system remains alive, allowing the Foothill Penstemon to regrow and repeat its life cycle in the following season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Spring', commonly known as Foothill Penstemon, is through softwood cuttings. This is best done in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is just beginning to harden (semi-ripe). To propagate, cut a length of stem about 3 to 5 inches long, making sure at least a couple of leaf nodes are present. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix, kept moist, and covered with a plastic bag or placed in a greenhouse to maintain humidity. Roots typically form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to less humid conditions and eventually planted out.