Penstemon 'Elgar Light of Life' Penstemon 'Elgar Light of Life' (Elgar Series)

Water

For a beardtongue, commonly known as the Penstemon 'Elgar Light of Life', watering should be done carefully to avoid over-saturation, as the plant prefers well-drained soil. During the active growing season, typically spring through fall, water once a week with about 1 inch of water or enough to moisten the soil to a depth of 8 inches. In the absence of rainfall, adjust the watering frequency to maintain consistent soil moisture. It's crucial not to let the soil become soggy, as this can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce watering significantly, as the plant enters a dormant phase.

Light

Penstemon 'Elgar Light of Life', also known simply as beardtongue, thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location is one where the plant can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, though it can tolerate some light afternoon shade. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor flowering and weak growth.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for the beardtongue is between 50°F and 85°F. These plants can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 90°F, but prolonged exposure to extremes beyond this range may damage or kill the plant. Providing a moderate temperature environment will promote healthier growth and better flowering.

Pruning

Pruning beardtongue promotes a neater plant appearance, controls its size, and can encourage a second bloom in certain conditions. After the first flush of flowers fades, cut back the flower spikes to just above a set of leaves or a lateral flowering stem. Prune the plants in early spring as well to remove any dead or damaged tissue. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the growing season can also improve the plant's appearance and vigor.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Beardtongue plants like Penstemon 'Elgar Light of Life' thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A soil mix composed of equal parts garden soil, sand, and compost is beneficial for its growth.

Repotting

Beardtongue does not require frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when the plant has clearly outgrown its current container.

Humidity & Misting

Beardtongue plants are quite tolerant of varying humidity levels, but they prefer moderate humidity and may struggle in very high humidity environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade; protect from harsh winter winds.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Penstemon 'Elgar Light of Life' (Elgar Series), also known as Beardtongue, begins its life as a seed which germinates in moist, well-draining soil, typically in the spring or fall. Seedlings emerge and establish a root system, and the plant enters a vegetative stage where it grows leaves and stems. During the spring and summer, the Beardtongue matures and produces tubular flowers that attract pollinators, aiding in reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing seeds which are eventually dispersed. As a perennial, the plant may die back to the ground in the winter, with its roots surviving to regenerate the next spring. Over time, the Beardtongue may spread through self-seeding or clonal growth from its rhizomes, perpetuating its life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Penstemon 'Elgar Light of Life' is by seed. In autumn or after the flowering season, allow the plant blooms to remain on the plant until they develop seed pods. Once the seed pods turn brown and dry, collect them and extract the tiny seeds. These seeds can then be sown in spring, after the risk of frost has passed, into a well-drained seed starting mix. Surface sow the seeds, pressing them gently into the soil as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius), providing them with ample sunlight. Germination should occur within 2 to 3 weeks, after which seedlings can be carefully transplanted to individual pots or outdoor areas as they grow.