Penstemon 'Melting Candy' Penstemon 'Melting Candy' (Ice Cream Series)

Water

For Beardtongue, also known as Penstemon, water the plant deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water or approximately 0.6 gallons per square foot per watering session. During hot or dry spells, increase watering to twice a week. Always check the soil before watering; it should be moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.

Light

Beardtongue thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant is an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent scorching.

Temperature

Beardtongue prefers temperatures between 50°F and 85°F but can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F. It is tolerant of a wide range of conditions but performs best in moderately warm climates. Frost can damage the plant, so provide protection if temperatures are expected to dip below the minimum threshold.

Pruning

Prune Beardtongue to promote bushier growth and more flowers. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage a second flush of flowers. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth starts or immediately after the first flowering period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Beardtongue prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mixture of loamy or sandy soil amended with organic matter such as compost or peat moss can create an ideal environment. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Repotting

Beardtongue plants typically do not need frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. Check for overcrowding in spring and repot if necessary.

Humidity & Misting

Beardtongue plants are adaptable and do not require high humidity levels. They thrive in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments and can tolerate some dry air. No specific humidity level is necessary.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright indirect light and avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Penstemon 'Melting Candy' (Beardtongue) begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in warm, moist soil conditions. After germination, it enters a vegetative stage where it develops a rosette of leaves at the soil level. As it matures, it develops a sturdy stem and produces a profusion of tubular flowers that are attractive to pollinators like hummingbirds and bees. Following pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules which eventually dry and release seeds for the next generation. In climates with cold winters, the Penstemon 'Melting Candy' may die back to the ground, with its roots surviving to regrow the next spring. Over time, the plant can become woody at the base, and it may require division or replacement after several years to maintain vigor.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Penstemon 'Melting Candy', also known by its common name Beardtongue, is best propagated by taking stem cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be about 3 to 4 inches (about 7.6 to 10.2 centimeters) long and taken with a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruners. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to increase the chance of success. Then, plant the stem cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, keeping them moist and covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which you can gradually acclimate the young plants to less humid conditions before planting them out.