Beardtongue Penstemon 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' (Pensham Series)
ABOUT
Penstemon 'Pensham Raspberry Ice', a member of the Pensham Series, is an eye-catching perennial plant known for its ornamental appeal. The plant showcases a striking display of tubular flowers, which possess a vibrant raspberry-pink hue, delicately edged with a frosty white margin, giving them a bi-color effect that resembles raspberry ice cream with a swirl of cream. These flowers bloom prolifically and are arranged in dense clusters along upright, sturdy stalks that extend gracefully above the foliage. The foliage itself consists of lance-shaped leaves that maintain a lush, deep green color, providing a contrasting backdrop that makes the flowers truly stand out. The leaves are glossy and smooth, arranged neatly along the stems, creating a bushy and full appearance. The leaves and stems together create a robust structure that cradles the colorful blooms. During its blooming season, the Penstemon 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' becomes a focal point in the garden, attracting pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees, which are drawn to the rich nectar and the vivid colors of the flowers. This plant's ability to hold its alluring blooms for a long stretch makes it a cherished addition to borders, flower beds, and cottage gardens where color and liveliness are desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Beardtongue, Penstemon
Common names
Penstemon 'Pensham Raspberry Ice'
ToxicityTo humans
The Penstemon, commonly known as beardtongue, is not generally considered toxic to humans. Therefore, there are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant since it is not known to be poisonous. Ingesting any part of the Penstemon plant typically does not lead to serious consequences in humans. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to the potential for digestive upset or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Beardtongue is not generally considered toxic to pets. It is not known to be poisonous, and there are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant for pets. Ingesting parts of the Penstemon plant is not expected to cause serious consequences for pets. However, each pet may react differently to ingesting plant material, and some may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. If a pet ingests an unfamiliar plant, it is always wise to monitor them closely and consult with a veterinarian if any adverse reactions are observed.
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
7
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The Penstemon 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, enhancing pollination in the garden.
- Long Flowering Period: This plant typically flowers from early summer until the first frosts, providing long-lasting color and interest.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it a great option for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Cold Hardy: The plant is relatively cold hardy, capable of withstanding cooler temperatures, which makes it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Decorative Cut Flowers: The blooms make for beautiful cut flowers that can be used to create vibrant indoor arrangements.
- Versatile Use: It is suitable for borders, rock gardens, and as a foundational planting, adding versatility to garden designs.
- Resistant to Deer: Generally resistant to deer, reducing the likelihood of damage in gardens frequented by wildlife.
- Colorful Foliage: Alongside its attractive flowers, the plant has colorful foliage that adds visual interest even when not in bloom.
- Easy to Propagate: It can be easily propagated from stem cuttings or seeds, allowing gardeners to expand their collections affordably.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible Flower Garnish: Penstemon flowers can add a splash of color and a subtle minty flavor to salads or as decorative garnishes on desserts and drinks.
- Photography Subject: The striking colors and shapes of Penstemon flowers make them an excellent subject for photographers specializing in botanical and nature photography.
- Potpourri Ingredient: Dried Penstemon petals can be included in potpourri mixes to add color and a slight fragrance to a room.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use the vibrant hues and form of the Penstemon "Raspberry Ice" as inspiration for paintings, textile designs, or other creative works.
- Natural Dye: The flowers of the Penstemon may be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, yarns, or paper, adding a touch of pink or purple depending on the mordant used.
- Bookmark Crafting: Pressed Penstemon flowers can be laminated or encased in clear adhesive paper to create unique and decorative bookmarks.
- Butterfly Garden Attraction: Incorporating Penstemon in a butterfly garden can help attract and support populations of butterflies and other beneficial pollinators.
- Educational Tool: Penstemon can be used in educational settings such as schools or botanical gardens to teach about plant biology, pollination, and horticulture practices.
- Theme Gardens: Penstemon can be used to create a color-themed garden space, such as a pink garden featuring "Raspberry Ice" and other pink flowering plants.
- Spiritual Symbolism: In some cultures, flowers like the Penstemon may be used in spiritual or religious ceremonies as symbols of purity, peace, or as offerings.
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: Penstemon, also known as Beardtongue, often symbolizes resilience due to its ability to thrive in tough environmental conditions.
- Beauty and Balance: The 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' variety, with its striking mix of colors, could represent the beauty found in diversity and the balance of contrasting elements.
- Health and Vitality: Many Penstemon species are used in traditional medicine, which may lead to their association with health and vitality.
- Adaptability: Beardtongue's capacity to adapt to various climates and soils may lend the symbol of adaptability to this plant variety.
- Openness: The open shape of the Penstemon flower can be seen as a symbol of openness to new experiences and ideas.
WaterBeardtongue should be watered deeply at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can promote fungal diseases. During the growing season, water the plant once a week, providing about one inch of water; this equates to approximately 0.6 gallons for an average-sized plant. However, always check the soil moisture before watering; the top inch of soil should be dry to the touch. During hot, dry periods, increase watering frequency, but in cooler, rainy conditions, reduce it to prevent overwatering. In winter, reduce watering to every few weeks, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
LightBeardtongue thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. For best growth and flowering, ensure the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can lead to sparse blooms and a leggy form.
TemperatureBeardtongue prefers temperatures ranging from 30 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive brief periods of colder weather, down to around 20 degrees, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing can damage the plant. The ideal temperature range for Beardtongue is 60 to 70 degrees, where it can grow and flower profusely.
PruningBeardtongue should be pruned to remove spent flower stalks, which encourages reblooming and prevents self-seeding. Deadheading can take place throughout the blooming season. At the end of the growing season, prune the plant back to its basal foliage to keep it tidy over the winter. Pruning can also be done in early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant for the upcoming growth period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBeardtongue 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' prefers a well-draining soil mix with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral. A mix of garden soil, sand, and compost or well-rotted manure will create the ideal environment for healthy growth. Amending the soil with organic matter can help improve both drainage and nutrient content.
RepottingBeardtongue 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' doesn't require frequent repotting and can typically be repotted every 2-3 years. It's best to repot in the spring before the new growth begins, using the soil mix as described above for the best results.
Humidity & MistingBeardtongue 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' tolerates a range of humidity levels and does not have specific requirements, making it suitable for typical outdoor garden conditions. It generally prefers average humidity and does not require the high humidity environments that some other plants might.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, well-draining soil, and regular watering.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cyclePenstemon 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in early spring, develops into a small seedling. The plant enters a vegetative growth phase, characterized by the development of a foliage of lance-shaped leaves and sturdy stems. As it matures, typically in late spring to early summer, it initiates the budding phase, leading to the emergence of tubular flowers with a white throat and raspberry-pink petals. During the blooming stage, which occurs in summer, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds, essential for the cross-pollination process. After pollination, the flowers fade and the plant produces fruit in the form of capsules containing small seeds, thus completing its reproductive cycle. The plant is perennial, so after the growing season, it dies back to its root system in the autumn and will remain dormant over winter, ready to regrow the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Penstemon 'Pensham Raspberry Ice' is by cuttings, which is ideally done in late spring or early summer. To do this, a gardener should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. The lower leaves of the cutting should be stripped, and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or a similar well-draining medium. The pot should be kept in a warm place with indirect light and the medium should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Rooting typically occurs within several weeks, at which point the cutting can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
