Beardtongue Penstemon Phoenix Magenta = 'Pheni Magna' (Phoenix Series)
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ABOUT
The Penstemon Phoenix Magenta, from the Phoenix Series, is a striking perennial plant that showcases vibrant magenta-colored flowers. The blooms are tubular with a flared mouth, somewhat resembling a trumpet shape, which attracts a host of pollinators including hummingbirds and bees. The petals have a rich, velvety texture, and they present a radiant contrast against the backdrop of the plant's foliage. The foliage comprises lance-shaped leaves that provide a lush green canvas for the bright flowers. The leaves are slightly glossy and appear arranged in a near-opposite pattern along the stems, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the plant. The overall impression is one of vivid coloration and lush greenery composing a plant that can add a touch of drama to any garden setting, especially when planted in groups or as part of a mixed border.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Beard Tongue, Penstemon
Common names
Penstemon 'Pheni Magna'
ToxicityTo humans
Penstemon, including the variety known as Phoenix Magenta, is not typically considered toxic to humans. These flowering plants do not usually contain compounds that would cause harm if touched or ingested. However, it is always advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not known to be safe for consumption. If a person were to eat a large quantity of any non-edible plant material, including Penstemon, it could potentially cause mild stomach upset due to the presence of plant fibers and other non-digestible components. Serious toxicity or poisoning symptoms from Penstemon are not commonly reported.
To pets
Penstemon, such as the Phoenix Magenta variety, is generally regarded as non-toxic to pets. This plant is not known to contain any substances that are harmful to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals if they were to ingest small quantities. Thus, it is not expected to cause poisoning or serious adverse health effects. However, as with humans, consumption of non-food plants by pets can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if a significant amount is ingested. Owners should still discourage pets from eating ornamental plants to prevent any discomfort or more serious complications from occurring due to the physical properties of the plant material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Magenta
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Penstemon Phoenix Magenta provides vibrant magenta blooms that add striking color to any garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its flowers are known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting pollination.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal upkeep beyond the occasional deadheading of spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Long Blooming Season: This penstemon variety enjoys a long blooming period from late spring into early fall.
- Versatility: The plant can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and containers.
- Herbaceous Perennial: As a perennial, it will return year after year in suitable climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic inspiration: Penstemon Phoenix Magenta's striking colors can be used by artists and designers as inspiration for artworks, textiles, or interior decor schemes.
- Educational tool: Botany teachers may use the Penstemon Phoenix Magenta to illustrate pollination processes and plant anatomy to students.
- Photographic subject: The vibrant flowers provide an excellent subject for photographers, particularly those specializing in macro photography.
- Floral arrangements: Fresh or dried Penstemon Phoenix Magenta flowers can be incorporated into bouquets or other floral compositions for events and home decoration.
- Theme gardens: Gardeners may use the plant to create a magenta-themed garden or a monochromatic planting scheme.
- Culinary decoration: The edible flowers of the Penstemon Phoenix Magenta can be used to garnish desserts and salads, adding a splash of color to dishes.
- Fauna support: The plant can act as a food source for hummingbirds and butterflies, helping to sustain local wildlife.
- Marker plant: The distinct magenta color of the Penstemon can be used in gardens to mark or signify specific areas or borders.
- Color dye: Although unconventional, the flowers might be experimented with to produce natural dyes for fabrics or paper crafting.
- Feng Shui: In the practice of Feng Shui, the Penstemon Phoenix Magenta could be used to introduce vibrant energy into a space, as magenta is a color associated with harmony and emotional balance.
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: Named after the mythical Phoenix, this plant symbolizes the ability to rise and thrive amidst adversity, much like the fabled bird rising from its own ashes.
- Endurance: Penstemon's hardiness and long blooming season reflect qualities of endurance and ongoing strength in challenging conditions.
- Vitality: The vivid magenta color of Penstemon Phoenix Magenta 'Pheni Magna' exudes vibrancy and life energy, representing liveliness and an energetic spirit.
- Femininity: The delicate blossoms and magenta color are often associated with feminine beauty and grace.
- Attraction: With its bold colors and shape that attract hummingbirds and bees, this plant symbolizes allure and the power of attraction.
WaterBeardtongue (Penstemon) should receive water regularly, especially during hot and dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable, encouraging deeper root growth; aim for about 1 inch of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall and temperature. Overhead watering should be avoided to keep foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases—instead, water at the soil level. During the growing season, they may need water twice a week, but always check the soil moisture before watering to prevent overwatering. It's best to water in the morning to allow any moisture on the foliage to dry out over the course of the day.
LightBeardtongue thrives best in full sun conditions, which means it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot for planting is in a garden bed that gets ample morning light and strong, direct sunlight throughout the day. They can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade can lead to leggy plants and reduced flowering.
TemperatureBeardtongue is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, but it grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 85°F. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F in winter and should be protected if temperatures dip below this range. High summer temperatures over 90°F may cause the plant to go dormant temporarily until cooler weather arrives.
PruningPrune Beardtongue to promote bushier growth and to remove spent flower stalks, encouraging a second bloom. Deadhead the flowers during the blooming season to maintain a neat appearance and cut back the foliage by one-third after the first bloom is over. In early spring, cut back winter-damaged foliage to make room for new growth. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBeardtongue prefers well-draining soil enriched with organic matter; a mix of loam, peat moss, and perlite is ideal. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingBeardtongue should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot, to refresh the soil and allow for continued growth.
Humidity & MistingBeardtongue thrives in average humidity conditions and does not require high humidity. The ambient humidity found in most homes and gardens is typically sufficient.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, with well-draining soil and moderate watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to part shade with well-draining soil and ample spacing.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cyclePenstemon Phoenix Magenta, commonly known as Beardtongue, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown, germinates in soil with adequate warmth and moisture. The seedling stage follows, where two true leaves develop and establish the plant's presence above ground. As the vegetative stage progresses, the Phoenix Magenta produces a rosette of leaves and a sturdy stem, during which root systems strengthen and prepare for flowering. The reproductive stage is marked by the emergence of vivid magenta tubular flowers that attract pollinators, vital for the plant's sexual reproduction and seed development. After pollination, the flowers fade and seed pods form, which eventually dry and release seeds for the next generation. The plant may die back in winter, particularly in colder climates, completing its annual cycle or, if it is a perennial variety, entering a period of dormancy before regrowth in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Penstemon Phoenix Magenta, commonly known as Beardtongue, is typically propagated by softwood cuttings during late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate by cuttings, choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) section. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, and keep it moist but not waterlogged. Provide a balanced environment with indirect light and consider covering with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Roots generally develop within a few weeks, after which the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
