Beardtongues 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' (Pensham Series)
ABOUT
Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' from the Pensham Series is an attractive perennial plant known for its distinctive floral display. The appearance of this Penstemon is characterized by the striking color of its flowers which are shaped like open-mouthed bell-like trumpets. These blooms possess a rich, rose-pink hue with a wonderfully contrasting throat that features darker striped markings, giving them a tiger-like pattern. The flowers are clustered tightly together, forming a lush inflorescence at the top of upright stems. The foliage of the Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' consists of lance-shaped leaves that are medium to dark green, providing a dense backdrop for the bright flowers. These leaves can also present a slightly glossy finish and are arranged in a simple, opposite manner along the stems, contributing to the plant's lush appearance. Overall, it is an attractive and hardy selection, popular for its vividly colorful and striking flowers which can add vibrancy and a touch of wild charm to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae.
Synonyms
Beardtongue, Bellflower Beardtongue.
Common names
Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose'
ToxicityTo humans
Penstemon, commonly known as Beardtongue, is not generally considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting Penstemon, and it does not appear on lists of toxic plants. Therefore, while it is not advisable to eat ornamental plants, there are no specific toxicity symptoms or consequences directly associated with Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' ingestion in humans known at this time.
To pets
Beardtongue, the most common name of the plant in question, is not typically known to be toxic to pets either. There is no significant evidence to suggest that Penstemon species are harmful to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals if ingested. Consequently, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning or adverse health consequences commonly associated with this plant in pets reported in the literature up to my knowledge cutoff date. However, it is always prudent to keep an eye on pets and prevent them from consuming any plants not meant for their diet, as individual sensitivities can vary.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
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: The Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' is known to attract bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant requires minimal care, making it ideal for gardeners who have limited time or prefer low-maintenance landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: It has good drought resistance once fully grown, which conserves water and makes it suitable for dry or xeriscape gardens.
- Long Blooming: Offers a long blooming season from late spring to early fall, providing extended color and interest in the garden.
- Cold Hardy: It is capable of withstanding cooler temperatures, making it a good choice for gardens in regions with colder climates.
- Deer Resistance: Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' is not favored by deer, reducing the likelihood of damage from grazing in areas where deer are a problem.
- Ornamental Value: The striking flowers and foliage add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes and can be used for cut flower arrangements.
- Versatility: It can be planted in a variety of settings including borders, beds, and containers, increasing its versatility in landscape design.
- Color Variety: The vibrant rose-colored blooms add a splash of color that can complement many other plants and garden themes.
- Soil Adaptability: It can adapt to a range of soil types, although it prefers well-draining soil, which makes it suitable for various garden conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The flowers of the Penstemon can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, providing a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- Photographic Subject: Due to their striking appearance, Penstemon flowers are often photographed and used in botanical and gardening publications or as artistic subjects.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of Penstemon flowers can be used to garnish salads and desserts for an added touch of color and subtle flavor.
- Edible Landscaping: Some gardeners might use Penstemon plants for edible landscaping purposes where aesthetics are coupled with the potential use of the flowers as food garnishes.
- Traditional Ceremonies: In some cultures, the blooms of the Penstemon might be used in ceremonies or festivities as symbols of health and vitality.
- Crafting Marker Ink: The pigments from Penstemon flowers could potentially be used in the crafting of natural marker inks for art projects.
- Natural Potpourri: Dried Penstemon petals can contribute to a natural potpourri mix, adding fragrance and color to a room.
- Floral Arrangements: Penstemons, with their long stems and colorful flowers, can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements in homes or at events.
- Teaching Tool: Botany enthusiasts may use Penstemon plants to teach about plant anatomy, pollination processes, or as examples of perennial growth habits.
- Companion Planting: Penstemon plants may be used in gardens as companion plants to attract pollinators that can benefit other nearby plants in the ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Penstemon is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Penstemon is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attraction: Penstemon often symbolizes attraction due to its bold and striking flowers which are known to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Diversity: Being part of the Pensham series with varied colors, the 'Tiger Belle Rose' variety represents diversity and variety in life.
- Hardiness: As Penstemons are hardy plants that can thrive in tough conditions, they embody resilience and the ability to weather challenges.
- Endurance: The plant's ability to withstand different climates mirrors qualities of endurance and persistence.
- Boldness: The bright colors of the 'Tiger Belle Rose' can signify a bold and daring spirit, encouraging one to stand out and be unique.
WaterBeardtongue prefers moderately moist soil, so water deeply once a week to encourage root growth. During hot, dry periods, increase watering to twice per week, providing about one gallon of water per plant per watering session. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant. Always check the soil moisture before watering; if the top inch of soil is dry, it's time to water.
LightBeardtongue thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot is one that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day, which promotes strong growth and abundant flowering. Too much shade can lead to leggy plants and reduced flowering, so aim for a location with ample bright light.
TemperatureBeardtongue plants prefer a temperature range of 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They will flourish in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is considered ideal. Protect from extreme cold by providing mulch or moving containers indoors.
PruningPrune Beardtongue to remove spent flower spikes and encourage additional blooming. In late fall or early spring, cut back the foliage to about 3 inches above the ground to promote healthy new growth. Pruning every few weeks during the flowering season keeps the plants looking tidy and may extend the blooming period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBeardtongue prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of loam, coarse sand, and compost is ideal to provide the right balance of drainage and fertility for optimal growth.
RepottingBeardtongue typically does not require frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil or if the plant has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingBeardtongue thrives in average humidity levels. It does not require high humidity and can tolerate the drier air found in most home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright indirect light and on the cooler side.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' begins with seed germination, typically occurring when soil temperatures are warm and conditions are moist. The seedlings develop into juvenile plants, producing a basal rosette of foliage. As they mature, they enter the vegetative stage, during which the plant continues to grow and produce more leaves, establishing a robust root system. Once mature, Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose' enters the flowering stage, producing tall spikes of tubular, rose-pink flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers develop into small capsules containing numerous tiny seeds, marking the reproductive stage. As the season ends, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, but it can also persist as a perennial, continuing its life cycle in the following growing season by sprouting anew from the rootstock or from self-sown seeds.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Penstemon 'Pensham Tiger Belle Rose', commonly known as Beardtongue, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. This method is best carried out in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, select a healthy stem with several leaves and cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) section just below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving two or three at the top, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite, ensuring the bottom nodes are covered by the substrate. The pot should be placed in a warm, well-lit area but out of direct sunlight, and the soil should be kept consistently moist but not soggy. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, and once they are well-established, the new Penstemon plant can be transplanted into the garden.
