Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod' Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod' (Elgar Series)

Water

Beardtongue plants, including the Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod', prefer to be watered deeply and infrequently to mimic their natural drought-tolerant environment. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week during active growth in the spring and summer. In cooler months, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on the plant's needs and environmental conditions. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the root zone, using approximately 1 gallon of water per plant. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure good drainage and allow the soil to dry between watering sessions.

Light

Beardtongue thrives best in full sunlight to part shade. Place the Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod' in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. If grown indoors, a south or west-facing window can provide the light conditions it needs to flourish.

Temperature

Beardtongue is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making it a versatile plant for many climates. The Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod' can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) once established and can endure summer temperatures well into the 90s°F (32-35°C). The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C).

Pruning

Pruning beardtongue is essential to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. For the Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod', prune in early spring by cutting back the plant to about 3 inches above ground to promote new, healthy stems. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will also encourage a longer blooming period. Some additional light pruning may be done after the main blooming period to remove any leggy or spent stems.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Beardtongue requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It thrives best in neutral to slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A mix of loam, sand, and compost or aged manure will create an ideal environment for healthy growth.

Repotting

Beardtongue plants don't need frequent repotting and can often be left undisturbed for several years. They should be repotted if they outgrow their current container or every 3 to 4 years to refresh soil nutrients.

Humidity & Misting

Beardtongue prefers a moderate humidity level, but it is quite adaptable and can tolerate the lower humidity levels typically found in home environments. Avoid too high humidity to prevent disease.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, avoid soggy soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny location with well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod' begins its life as a seed, often germinating when soil temperatures rise in spring. After germination, it enters the vegetative stage, where it develops a rosette of leaves at ground level. With appropriate sunlight and water, it grows taller, developing stems and leaves in preparation for flowering. Flowering occurs usually from late spring to early summer, presenting tubular flowers that are attractive to bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, the plant sets seed in small capsules, which eventually dry and release seeds to complete the reproductive cycle. Depending on climate conditions, Penstemons may act as perennial plants, dying back in the winter to re-emerge from their rootstock the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Penstemon 'Elgar Nimrod', commonly known as Beardtongue, is by seed. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds thinly onto the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix in a flat or container. Lightly press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as they require light to germinate. Maintain a consistent moisture level and keep the container in a warm location with plenty of indirect sunlight. Germination typically occurs in about 2 to 3 weeks at a temperature of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Once seedlings have developed a set of true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into their final position in the garden during the appropriate planting season.