Pineleaf Beardtongue Penstemon pinifolius 'Wisley Flame'

Water

The Pineleaf Penstemon should be watered regularly but allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. During the growing season in spring and summer, water approximately once a week, depending on weather conditions; plants may need more frequent watering in extremely hot or dry weather. Provide a thorough watering each time, using about 1 gallon for mature plants to ensure the root zone is adequately moistened. In fall and winter, reduce watering frequency to every few weeks or when the soil is very dry to the touch.

Light

Pineleaf Penstemon thrives in full sun conditions where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It is best placed in a spot where it's exposed to the morning sun and protected from the intense afternoon heat, if possible. This plant can tolerate some partial shade, but flowering is most prolific when it receives sufficient sunlight.

Temperature

Pineleaf Penstemon does well in a wide range of temperatures but prefers moderate to warm conditions. It can tolerate cold down to about 10 degrees Fahrenheit, but it thrives in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range helps promote healthy growth and abundant flowering; avoid placing the plant where temperatures consistently exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, as extreme heat may stress it.

Pruning

Prune Pineleaf Penstemon in late winter or early spring before new growth starts to remove any dead or damaged stems and promote bushier growth. Additionally, deadheading spent flowers throughout the growing season can encourage more blooms. The best time for major pruning is after the last frost when you can trim the plant back by about one-third to maintain shape and vigour.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Pineleaf Penstemon thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good soil mix can be created using equal parts of loamy soil, sand, and compost to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Avoid heavy, clay-rich soils as they can lead to root rot for Pineleaf Penstemon.

Repotting

Pineleaf Penstemon does not need frequent repotting and can generally be repotted every 2-3 years. It's best to repot in spring or early summer before the plant enters its active growing phase.

Humidity & Misting

Pineleaf Penstemon prefers moderate to low humidity conditions. This plant is not a humidity lover and will do well in typical household humidity levels. There is no need to provide additional humidity for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, minimal water, and good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from excessive moisture.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Penstemon pinifolius 'Wisley Flame', commonly known as Pineleaf Penstemon, begins its life as a seed which germinates in late winter to early spring, given suitable conditions. Upon germination, it develops a small rosette of needle-like foliage, indicative of its pine-like characteristics. As it matures into the vegetative stage, the plant forms a more substantial stem and leaf structure, providing the necessary support for future flowering. In late spring to early summer, the Pineleaf Penstemon enters the blooming stage, showcasing vibrant red tubular flowers that attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees. Following pollination, the flowers produce small capsules containing seeds, which are dispersed in late summer or fall, perpetuating the cycle. In the dormant stage during winter, the top growth may die back, especially in colder climates, while the root system remains alive, ready to regrow in the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Penstemon pinifolius 'Wisley Flame', also known as the Pineleaf Penstemon, is most commonly propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to perform this propagation method is during the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate from stem cuttings, one should first select healthy, non-flowering stems. Cut a 3 to 5 inch (approximately 7.5 to 12.5 centimeters) portion of the stem just below a leaf node, and remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and insert it into a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist until it roots, which usually takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the new Pineleaf Penstemon can be transplanted into the garden.