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

Water

Beardtongue requires regular watering to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during its blooming period and the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Water thoroughly but infrequently, about once a week, providing about one inch of water each time which equates to about 0.623 gallons per square yard. During hot, dry spells, increase the frequency to twice a week but always check the soil moisture level first to prevent overwatering. During winter, reduce watering as the plant requires less moisture due to dormancy. Always water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Light

Beardtongue thrives best in full sun conditions, where it can receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that provides morning sun with some afternoon shade is ideal, especially in regions with very hot summers. Avoid deep shade as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering. The plant's vibrant blooms and healthy growth are maximized in an area with ample sunlight.

Temperature

Beardtongue is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but it prefers a range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. Although it can survive temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s best to protect it from frost. During summer, it can tolerate high temperatures if provided with sufficient water. The ideal temperatures will promote healthy foliage and abundant flowering.

Pruning

Prune beardtongue to encourage bushier growth, improve air circulation, and promote more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers regularly can help encourage a second flush of blooms. At the end of the blooming season, cut back the entire plant to about one to three inches above the ground. Pruning is best done in late fall or early spring before new growth resumes.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Beardtongue thrives in well-draining soil with a mixture of loam and sand, enriched with organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Beardtongue does not require frequent repotting; repot only when it outgrows its current container, typically every 2-3 years.

Humidity & Misting

Beardtongue prefers average to low humidity levels; it does not require any special humidity considerations as long as soil moisture is maintained appropriately.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and regular watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, in well-draining soil, and water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Penstemon 'Delfts Blue Riding Hood', also known as Beardtongue, begins with seed germination, typically in early to mid-spring, where the seeds sprout and establish a small rosette of leaves at the soil surface. As the weather warms, vegetative growth accelerates, and the plant develops a sturdy stem and a fuller foliage structure. By late spring to early summer, it begins to flower, producing tall spikes adorned with bell-shaped blue flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies. After pollination, usually by these visiting pollinators, the flowers will develop into small seed capsules by late summer or early fall. The seeds can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, perpetuating the cycle. During winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, entering a period of dormancy until the warmth of spring prompts new growth, starting the cycle anew.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method for propagating Penstemon 'Delft Blue Riding Hood' is by softwood cuttings. Take cuttings in late spring or early summer, when the plant is growing vigorously. Select a healthy stem with new growth, measuring about 3-4 inches (approximately 7.5-10 centimeters) in length, and make a clean cut just below a leaf node using a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears. Remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the exposed nodes are buried. Water the cutting gently and place it in a warm, bright area out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and within a few weeks, the cutting should begin to grow roots, at which point it can eventually be transplanted outdoors.