Beardtongue Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle' (Pensham Series)
ABOUT
Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle' is notable for its appealing floral show. The stems of this plant rise up bearing tubular flowers, which tend to be large and striking. These blossoms exhibit a vivid pink hue paired with a white throat, creating a two-tone effect that adds depth and contrast to the overall display. The green foliage forms a dense clump, providing a lush background for the colorful flowers. The leaves of 'Pensham Avonbelle' are lance-shaped, offering a sleek and somewhat elongated form. They possess a verdant green color, contributing to the plant's overall vibrant appearance. With the flowers rising above the foliage, this Penstemon variety delivers a tiered look that is visually dynamic. Flowering typically occurs from early to mid-summer, and under optimal conditions, the blooms can continue into the early fall. The plant's ability to produce a profusion of flowers is one of its standout characteristics, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a long-lasting splash of color to their garden spaces. Overall, Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle' is a beautiful and hardy perennial, widely appreciated for its ornamental flowers that can add elegance and a touch of charm to any planting area. Its striking blooms and robust growth make it a delightful addition to border fronts, rock gardens, or as a complement to other perennials in mixed beds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Beardtongue, Penstemon
Common names
Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle'
ToxicityTo humans
The Beacon Penstemon is generally not considered toxic to humans. It is not known to have any poisonous properties, and there should not be any symptoms of poisoning from ingesting this plant. However, as with any non-food plant, it is advisable to avoid ingestion and to keep it away from small children who might put parts of the plant in their mouths.
To pets
The Beacon Penstemon is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe and should not cause any symptoms of poisoning if ingested by animals such as dogs or cats. However, individual animals might have different sensitivities, and it is always best to prevent pets from eating plants not intended for consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds due to its vibrant flowers, which can help increase pollination in your garden.
- Adds visual interest with its tall spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making it a focal point in garden designs.
- Drought resistant once established, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Cold hardy, which allows it to withstand harsh winter conditions without significant damage.
- Perennial growth habit means it returns year after year, providing long-term structure and color in gardens.
- Low maintenance requirements, with no need for complicated pruning or care regimes, ideal for novice gardeners.
- Non-invasive species, which means it will not spread uncontrollably and take over the garden space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant colors and intricate shapes of Penstemon flowers may be used as a source of inspiration for artists, especially for botanical illustrations or paintings.
- Educational Tool: Gardeners and educators might use the Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle' to teach about plant biology, pollination, and horticultural practices.
- Companion Planting: Penstemons can be planted alongside vegetables and fruits to attract pollinators which can improve yields of the crops.
- Photography Subject: Due to their striking appearance, Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle' can be a sought-after subject for photographers, particularly those specializing in nature and macro photography.
- Nature-Themed Events: The flowers could be used as natural décor for outdoor events and weddings, providing an elegant and eco-friendly decorating solution.
- Pensham Series Study: Botanists and horticulturists may use the variety for genetic studies, to understand the breeding and genetics of the Penstemon genus.
- Habitat Creation: Gardeners can plant Penstemons to create habitats that support biodiversity, providing food and shelter to a range of insects and birds.
- Culinary Garnish: While not widely used as such, the petals of Penstemon, if not treated with chemicals, could be used to add colorful garnishes to salads and desserts.
- Traditional Crafts: In some cultures, plant parts from Penstemons might be used for their color and form in traditional craftwork such as potpourri or dried flower arrangements.
- Soil Erosion Control: The root system of Penstemon plants can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in certain landscapes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Beardtongue is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Beardtongue is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Penstemon, also known as Beardtongue due to the bearded appearance of its staminode, often symbolizes resilience as it is capable of thriving in harsh climates and poor soil conditions.
- Diversity: The wide variety of colors and shapes of Penstemon flowers represents diversity, celebrating the uniqueness and beauty of different traits and features.
- Attraction: Beardtongue is known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a symbol for charm and allure.
- Health: Some species of Penstemon have been used in traditional medicine, which can make them a symbol of health and healing.
- Open Communication: The open shape of the Penstemon flower can symbolize open communication and the sharing of thoughts and feelings.
WaterBeardtongue, the common name for Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle', requires moderate watering. Ideally, the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Deep watering is beneficial, as opposed to frequent shallow watering, to encourage deep root growth. This might mean watering with approximately 1 gallon of water for outdoor plants every week during the growing season, adjusting depending on rainfall and temperatures. During the winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant's water requirements decrease.
LightBeardtongue thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Too much shade can result in fewer blooms and a leggy plant, so choose a spot that offers bright and direct light for the majority of the day.
TemperatureBeardtongue is hardy in a range of temperatures and can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many temperate climates. The ideal growing temperature for Penstemon is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. The plant can tolerate higher temperatures as long as it is not prolonged and if it is well-watered.
PruningPruning Beardtongue encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong the flowering period and prune back the plant by one-third after the initial flowering to stimulate a second bloom. Prune in early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and shape the plant. The best time for major pruning is after the last frost when new growth begins to appear.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBeardtongues prefer well-draining soil with a mixture of loam, sand, and compost to promote good drainage. The ideal pH level for Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle' is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A layer of mulch can help retain moisture and protect the roots.
RepottingPenstemons, including the 'Pensham Avonbelle', typically don't need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. It's best to repot these plants every 2-3 years or when you notice the soil degrading or the plant outgrowing its current container.
Humidity & MistingBeardtongues fare well in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments and don't require high humidity. Aim for relative humidity levels between 40% to 60%, which is comfortable for most indoor spaces as well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place near south-facing window and keep soil moderately dry.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun; shelter from strong winds; well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cyclePenstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle', commonly known as Beardtongue, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring when the soil warms up. Once the seedling emerges, it develops into a young plant with a rosette of leaves at the soil level. As it matures, the Penstemon enters a vegetative growth phase where it produces a sturdy stem and a full set of leaves, accumulating resources to enter the next stage. The reproductive phase follows, during which the plant produces tall spikes with tubular flowers that are attractive to pollinators; this typically occurs in late spring to early summer. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit capsules containing seeds, which when mature, are dispersed by wind or fall near the parent plant. The plant may either die back in winter, entering a period of dormancy, or it may perish depending on the climate and care, completing its life cycle over one or more seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Penstemon 'Pensham Avonbelle', also commonly known as Beardtongue, is best propagated by softwood cuttings in late spring to early summer. To propagate, choose a healthy stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch (about 10-15 cm) length, making sure at least two nodes are on the cutting. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and ensure it is kept moist but not overly wet. Place the cutting in a warm, bright area but out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
