Penstemon 'Blueberry Fudge' Penstemon 'Blueberry Fudge' (Ice Cream Series)

Water

Beardtongue prefers consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to become dry to the touch between watering cycles, which generally means about once a week. Depending on weather conditions, this may translate to about 1 inch of water each week. In hot, dry periods, you may need to increase watering frequency but always check the soil moisture level first. Overwatering can be detrimental, leading to root rot, so it's crucial to ensure proper drainage and not let the plant sit in water.

Light

Beardtongue thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location is a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If grown indoors, a bright south-facing window can be an excellent spot. In regions with very hot summers, afternoon shade can help prevent scorching of the leaves.

Temperature

Beardtongue is hardy in temperatures ranging from approximately 20°F to 90°F but prefers a moderate climate. The ideal temperature range for robust growth is between 60°F and 75°F. Extremes below 20°F or above 90°F can stress the plant and may require protective measures such as mulching or shade covers.

Pruning

Pruning Beardtongue encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Prune in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems, and deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cutting back the plant by about one-third after the first bloom can stimulate a second bloom period later in the summer.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Beardtongue prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of loam, sand, and a small amount of compost is ideal. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, and amend with organic material to encourage healthy growth.

Repotting

Beardtongue typically needs repotting every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. The best time to repot is in spring before new growth begins, using a fresh soil mix that matches the plant's requirements outlined above.

Humidity & Misting

Beardtongue does best in moderate to low humidity conditions as it's adapted to somewhat dry climates. Aim for humidity levels between 40% to 50%, typical of many indoor environments, to keep the plant healthy.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Beardtongue in bright, indirect light and ensure good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant Beardtongue in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Penstemon 'Blueberry Fudge' begins with seed germination in well-drained soil and under suitable temperature conditions, generally in late winter to early spring if outside but they can be planted indoors before the last frost. After germination, the seedlings grow and develop a root system and foliage, entering the vegetative stage. Following the vegetative stage, the plant enters the flowering phase during spring to summer, producing attractive bell-shaped blue to purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant sets seed, and these seeds can be collected for propagation or allowed to fall to the ground where they may germinate to start a new plant life cycle. In autumn, the plant begins to enter dormancy, with foliage dying back as temperatures drop, especially in regions with cold winters, although in some warmer climates, the plant may remain semi-evergreen. If the plant survives winter, it will resume growth from the root system in the following spring, continuing its perennial cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Penstemon 'Blueberry Fudge', commonly referred to as Beardtongue, can be propagated most effectively by softwood cuttings. This technique is usually carried out in late spring or early summer when new growth is just beginning to harden off. To propagate by cuttings, gardeners should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and make a cut just below a leaf node using a sharp, clean instrument. The cutting should be about 2-4 inches (5-10 centimeters) long, and the lower leaves should be removed. Dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone can enhance the chances of successful rooting. The cutting is then planted in a moist, well-draining soil mix, making sure a few leaf nodes are below the soil surface. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist and to provide a warm environment with indirect sunlight until roots develop, which may take several weeks.