Penstemon 'Pensham Capricorn Moon' Penstemon 'Pensham Capricorn Moon' (Pensham Series)

Water

Beardtongue, commonly known as Penstemon 'Pensham Capricorn Moon', should be watered deeply once a week, providing enough water to soak the root zone. During hot, dry spells, increase watering to twice per week, ensuring that the soil dries out between watering to prevent root rot. Use about 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session, adjusting for rainfall. Decrease watering frequency to every other week in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy. It is best to water in the morning to reduce evaporation and the risk of fungal diseases.

Light

Beardtongue thrives in full sun conditions receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot is in an open area away from tall trees or buildings that might create excessive shade. Plants situated in too much shade may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.

Temperature

Beardtongue prefers moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate a range between 40°F to 85°F. Ideal growth occurs when daytime temperatures are around 70°F to 75°F. Winter temperatures should not fall below 20°F to avoid frost damage to the plant.

Pruning

Prune Beardtongue in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and encourage bushy growth. Deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season will promote further flowering. Prune back by approximately one-third after the first flush of flowers to rejuvenate the plant and encourage a second bloom period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Beardtongue thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, with a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal for ensuring proper drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Beardtongues should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil, avoid root crowding, and support their growth. Repotting is best done in the spring as they emerge from dormancy.

Humidity & Misting

Beardtongue prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate both low and high humidity conditions as long as they are not extreme.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade, in well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Penstemon 'Pensham Capricorn Moon' begins its life as a seed, typically planted in well-drained soil and requiring a period of stratification—cold treatment—to stimulate germination. Upon germination in early spring, it develops into a seedling with basic root structure and shoots. As the plant matures, it grows into a clump-forming perennial, with stems reaching up to flowering height and leaves expanding to create photosynthetic energy. During late spring to summer, it produces bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators and may set seeds if fertilized. After blooming, depending on the climate, the plant may either become dormant in winter, dying back to the ground, or in milder climates, it may retain some of its foliage. Over the years, the plant will continue to grow and may need division every few years to maintain health and vigor.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Penstemon 'Pensham Capricorn Moon' is through semi-ripe cuttings. This process is typically done in late summer when the stems are partially matured but still pliable. To propagate, choose a healthy stem and make a cut below a node, creating a cutting that is about 2 to 4 inches long (5-10 centimeters). Remove the lower leaves to expose a small section of the stem. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to enhance root development before planting the cutting into a pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a propagator to maintain humidity, and keep it in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.