Penstemon 'Pensham Plum Jerkum' (Pensham Series)
ABOUT
Penstemon 'Pensham Plum Jerkum', part of the Pensham Series, is a striking perennial plant known for its flamboyant flowers and bushy foliage. The plant displays a lush cluster of foliage that serves as a lush backdrop to its showy blossoms. The leaves are generally lance-shaped with a slightly serrated margin and exhibit a deep green color that underscores the vibrancy of its flowers. The standout feature of Penstemon 'Pensham Plum Jerkum' is its stunning flowers, which bloom in a rich, plum-purple hue. The blossoms are tubular and bell-shaped with a slightly flared mouth, resembling a trumpet. The flowers are neatly arranged on tall, upright spikes that emerge from the foliage below. Each bloom may showcase a white throat with contrasting streaks or lines that lead into the deep purple of the petals. This striking pattern adds depth and allure to the overall appearance of the plant. The blossoms of the Penstemon 'Pensham Plum Jerkum' are known to attract pollinators, such as bees and hummingbirds, adding to the dynamic presence of this plant in any garden. Its vibrant purple flowers and dark green foliage make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a pop of color to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Beardtongue, Penstemon
Common names
Penstemon 'Pensham Plum Jerkum'
ToxicityTo humans
Penstemon, commonly known as Beardtongue, is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is possible for someone to have a reaction to any plant they are not familiar with. There is no well-documented toxicity or symptomatic poisoning from ingesting parts of Beardtongue plants. Ingesting plant material can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or other non-specific symptoms due to the plant's fibrous material, but significant toxicity is not commonly reported.
To pets
Penstemon, also known as Beardtongue, is not known to be toxic to pets. While it is always best to prevent pets from eating non-food plants due to the potential for digestive upset, there are no widespread reports of serious illness or symptoms directly attributed to the ingestion of Beardtongue by pets. Ingesting plant material may at times cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, including vomiting or diarrhea, but significant toxic effects are not expected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Plum
Height
2 feet 6 inches (76 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: This plant is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden, aiding in pollination of plants.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerant: After establishing a deep root system, it can tolerate periods of drought, making it ideal for water-conservation landscapes.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its striking plum-colored tubular flowers and tall spikes, it adds visual interest and beauty to garden borders and beds.
- Long Blooming: It has a long flowering period from late spring to early fall, providing color in the garden for an extended time.
- Cold Hardy: It is capable of enduring cold temperatures, making it suitable for growth in a variety of climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Educational purposes: This plant could be used in botany classes to demonstrate the characteristics of the Penstemon genus, including flower structure and pollination strategies.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use the vivid colors and intricate forms of Penstemon flowers as subjects for paintings, drawings, or photography.
- Culinary decoration: Although not edible, the blossoms could be used temporarily to adorn plates or serving trays during upscale dining events for aesthetic appeal.
- Dye production: The petals could potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabric, though tests for colorfastness would be necessary.
- Photographic subjects: Garden photographers could use Penstemon as a subject to practice macro photography techniques due to their detailed floral structures.
- Bookmark creation: Dried Penstemon flowers can be laminated and used as decorative bookmarks.
- Floral perfumery: While not a common use, the scent of the flowers might inspire the creation of perfumes or scented oils if they possess a desirable aroma.
- Wedding decor: Penstemon could be used in non-traditional floral arrangements at weddings, especially for rustic or garden-themed ceremonies.
- Journaling or scrapbooking: Pressed Penstemon flowers could be added to journals, scrapbooks, or other craft projects for embellishment.
- Garden design teaching tool: Landscape design students might use Penstemon as an example when learning about color schemes and perennial plantings in garden design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Penstemon, also known as beardtongue, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Penstemon, also known as beardtongue, is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hearty Resilience: Penstemons are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in tough conditions, symbolizing the strength and resilience to withstand adversity.
- Longevity: With a long blooming season, penstemons can represent lasting endurance and the continuity of life.
- Vibrancy: The rich plum color of 'Pensham Plum Jerkum' can symbolize a vibrant and energetic spirit, evoking a sense of joy and celebration.
- Boldness: The striking appearance of penstemons may stand for boldness and the courage to stand out in a crowd.
- Health and Vitality: Traditionally, penstemons have been associated with good health and restoration, representing a wish for vitality and well-being.
WaterBeardtongue prefers consistent moisture, so water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, which generally means once or twice a week during active growth in spring and summer. Use a gentle stream of water to soak the soil around the plant without wetting the foliage, providing about one gallon per plant for each watering session. In the cooler months, reduce watering to every two weeks or less, as the plant's water needs decrease with lower temperatures and reduced sunlight.
LightBeardtongue thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot would receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, which promotes the healthiest growth and best flowering. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureBeardtongue is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit during dormancy. However, the optimal growing temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate high temperatures as well, but prolonged exposure to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit without adequate moisture may stress the plant.
PruningPruning beardtongue is necessary to promote bushier growth and remove spent flower stalks, which encourages reblooming. Prune the plant back by one-third after the initial flowering to maintain shape and encourage a second bloom. The best time for pruning is immediately after the first flowering peak subsides.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBeardtongue prefers well-draining soil with a mix of sand, loam, and compost. Aim for a pH of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingBeardtongue should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current pot.
Humidity & MistingBeardtongue thrives in moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to various conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Penstemon 'Pensham Plum Jerkum', commonly known as Beardtongue, begins its life cycle when seed germination occurs, typically in a moist, well-drained environment with sufficient warmth. After germination, the seedling stage involves the development of a basic root system and the first set of true leaves, establishing the plant. During the vegetative growth stage, 'Pensham Plum Jerkum' rapidly grows foliage and stems, preparing for flowering. The flowering stage occurs in late spring to early summer, presenting striking tubular flowers that attract pollinators and are pivotal for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the plant enters the fruiting stage, producing capsules containing numerous small seeds. The plant may go dormant or die back in winter, depending on the climate, completing its annual cycle, although as a perennial, the root system can survive to regenerate the next spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: Penstemon 'Pensham Plum Jerkum', commonly known as Beardtongue, is most effectively propagated in the spring through stem cuttings. To do so, one should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) portion just below a node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is dipped in a rooting hormone powder to promote root development. The cutting is then inserted into a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least one node is below the soil surface for roots to form. The pot should be placed in a warm, bright area out of direct sunlight to encourage rooting, which usually takes several weeks, after which the new Penstemon can be transplanted into the garden.
