Beardtongue Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young' (Pensham Series)
ABOUT
The Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young' is a captivating perennial plant distinguished by its vibrant floral display and foliage. It showcases tubular flowers which are predominantly a rich, velvety crimson color, interspersed with subtle white throats that add a striking contrast to the blooms. These flowers are arranged in dense clusters along upright, sturdy stems, creating a visually appealing effect as they rise above the foliage. The leaves of 'Eleanor Young' are lush and predominantly lance-shaped, exhibiting a deep green hue that forms a lush backdrop for the brilliant flowers. The foliage tends to be glossy, providing a textural contrast to the softness of the blooms. Together, the foliage and flowers produce a lush and colorful display throughout its blooming period, attracting pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds to the garden. Overall, the captivating look of Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young' is a combination of its appealing, bright flowers, and the robust greenery that supports them, making it a delightful addition to any garden space designed for visual impact and interest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Beard Tongue, Beardtongue
Common names
Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young' (Pensham Series).
ToxicityTo humans
The Penstemon, commonly referred to as beardtongue, is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting beardtongue, and it is generally considered safe around humans in terms of toxicity. However, it is always advisable to avoid ingesting any part of ornamental plants due to the potential for individual allergies or sensitivities.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, the Penstemon, or beardtongue, is not believed to be toxic to pets. There are no significant reports of toxicity in domestic animals such as dogs and cats from ingesting this plant. While it is typically considered non-toxic, it is still best practice to prevent pets from consuming plants not intended for them, as individual animals may have unique reactions or could experience gastrointestinal upset from eating non-food items.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2 feet 4 inches (70 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young' is known to attract bees and butterflies, which can help pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its striking flowers and foliage, this plant adds color and visual interest to any garden or landscape design.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with limited water.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, with less frequent need for watering or fertilizing.
- Cold Hardy: This plant can withstand colder temperatures, making it a suitable perennial for a variety of climates.
- Long Blooming Period: The variety offers a lengthy flowering period from early to late summer, providing long-lasting garden interest.
- Deer Resistance: These plants are not a preferred food source for deer, which is beneficial for gardeners in areas with deer pressure.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, rock gardens, and containers, this plant can be utilized in various garden settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye source: The blooms of the beardtongue can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, giving a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- In artistic arrangements: Stems of beardtongue can be utilized in floral arrangements or dried and used in crafting for their aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting flowers.
- Garden architecture: With its vertical growth habit, beardtongue can be used to add height and structure in garden design, providing a backdrop for shorter plants.
- Educational tool: This plant can be used in educational settings, such as schools and nature centers, to teach about pollination and the role of native plants in local ecosystems.
- Photography subject: Due to its striking blooms, the beardtongue is often used by photographers as a subject for botanical and nature photography.
- As a companion plant in vegetable gardens: Beardtongue can attract beneficial insects that help with pest control among vegetables.
- Culinary garnish: Although not widely known for their taste, the flowers can potentially be used as an edible garnish to decorate salads and desserts.
- Pattern inspiration: The intricate patterns of the beardtongue flowers and foliage can inspire designs in textiles, wallpaper, and other decorative arts.
- Winter interest: Some varieties of beardtongue, including Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young', can leave behind interesting seed heads that provide visual interest in the winter garden.
- Butterfly gardens: Beardtongue is a valuable addition to butterfly gardens as it attracts and supports these pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Beardtongue is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Beardtongue is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Penstemons are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in challenging environments, symbolizing the human ability to endure and prosper despite difficulties.
- Pride: With their bold and vivid flowers, they can symbolize pride and confidence, encouraging individuals to take pride in their own accomplishments and qualities.
- Daring: The striking appearance of the Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young' may represent a sense of adventure and willingness to take risks.
- Health and Vitality: As a plant that contributes to the ecosystem by attracting pollinators, it can be associated with life, health, and vitality.
- Beauty: The aesthetic appeal of its flowers often symbolizes beauty and appreciation for the visually pleasing aspects of life.
WaterBeardtongue should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time, which equates to approximately 0.623 or 0.935 gallons for an average-sized plant. During hot, dry periods, increase watering frequency to twice a week. Always allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot. In cooler or rainy weather, reduce the amount of water to prevent soggy soil conditions.
LightBeardtongue thrives in full sun conditions, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It's best situated in a location where it can receive unfiltered morning light and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climate zones. Avoid deep shade areas, as insufficient light may lead to poor flowering and weak growth.
TemperatureBeardtongue prefers temperate conditions and can generally withstand temperatures ranging from 14 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for vigorous growth and flowering is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a hardy plant that can survive temporary dips below freezing, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 14 degrees can be detrimental.
PruningPruning Beardtongue is essential for promoting bushier growth and prolonging the flowering period. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and prune back the entire plant by one-third after the initial flowering to rejuvenate growth. The best time for major pruning is in the late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBeardtongue prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam, peat, and coarse sand. The best pH for Beardtongue is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingBeardtongue does not need frequent repotting and can be done every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its container.
Humidity & MistingBeardtongue thrives in moderate humidity levels and does not require high humidity; normal room humidity is generally sufficient for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade and shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of 'Penstemon Pensham Eleanor Young,' commonly known as Beardtongue, begins with seed germination, which requires a well-draining soil medium and consistent moisture. After sprouting, the seedling stage involves the emergence of true leaves and the development of a root system. The vegetative stage sees a period of robust growth where the plant develops its characteristic lance-shaped foliage and strong stems in preparation for flowering. During the flowering stage, typically from late spring through summer, Beardtongue produces tubular flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds for pollination. After successful pollination, the plant enters the fruiting stage where seed capsules form and ripen, eventually releasing seeds for the next generation. The plant will then go through a period of dormancy in colder seasons, especially if located in a climate with harsh winters, before resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Penstemon 'Pensham Eleanor Young', commonly known as Beardtongue, is most commonly propagated by softwood cuttings. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is in late spring or early summer when the plant’s growth is most vigorous. Cut a 4 to 6-inch (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long stem from a healthy Beardtongue, making sure it has several leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a greenhouse-like environment and place it in a warm spot with indirect sunlight. Roots typically form in a few weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted into their permanent location.
