Scouler's Penstemon Penstemon fruticosus var. scouleri 'Albus'
ABOUT
Penstemon fruticosus var. scouleri 'Albus', commonly known as Scouler's penstemon, is characterized by its attractive, tubular flowers which are distinctive in their coloration—'Albus' refers to their white hue. The blossoms are typically arranged in dense clusters, surrounded by lush, green foliage. The leaves of this plant are narrow, sometimes with a slightly lance-like shape, contributing to a bushy appearance. Scouler's penstemon typically has a semi-evergreen habit, with its foliage staying intact for much of the year, depending on the climate. The white flowers contrast beautifully with the greenery, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add a touch of elegance to their landscape. The overall appearance of Scouler's penstemon is that of a hardy, yet delicate flowering plant known for its decorative appeal and attractive color palette.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae.
Synonyms
Bush Penstemon, Shrubby Penstemon, Scouler's Penstemon.
Common names
Penstemon scouleri var. albus, Penstemon fruticosus ssp. scouleri var. albus.
ToxicityTo humans
Bush penstemon, the common name for Penstemon fruticosus var. scouleri 'Albus', is generally not considered to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingestion of this plant. Therefore, it is not typically regarded as hazardous if accidentally ingested. However, as with any plant not intended for consumption, it is advisable to exercise caution and avoid eating the plant.
To pets
Bush penstemon is the common name for Penstemon fruticosus var. scouleri 'Albus', which is not known to be toxic to pets. There is no specific documentation of toxicity in domestic animals such as dogs and cats. If a pet were to ingest parts of this plant, it is unlikely to result in poisoning. However, individual animals can have varying sensitivities, and it is generally wise to prevent pets from consuming non-food plants as a precautionary measure.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Penstemon, commonly known as beardtongue, offers nectar that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: Beardtongue is adapted to dry conditions, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its white flowers, 'Albus' adds beauty and contrast to garden borders.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, beardtongue plants require minimal care, making them ideal for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Deer Resistance: Penstemon is generally resistant to deer, which helps to prevent damage to the plant and maintain the garden's aesthetics.
- Native Plant Advantages: Being a variety of a native species, beardtongue supports the local ecosystem and is well-adapted to local climate and soil conditions.
- Seasonal Interest: Beardtongue blooms from late spring to early summer, providing seasonal interest in the garden.
- Versatility: This plant can be used in a variety of garden settings, including rock gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows.
- Soil Adaptability: Beardtongue can thrive in a range of soil types, although it prefers well-draining soil.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye source: The flowers of the Bush Penstemon can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, producing subtle shades of color.
- In xeriscaping: Because of its drought tolerance, Bush Penstemon is ideal for water-efficient, low-maintenance landscaping.
- As a model organism: This plant can be studied for ecological research, including pollination biology and climate adaptation studies.
- In creating floral arrangements: Fresh or dried Bush Penstemon flowers can be used in bouquets and floral displays for their delicate beauty.
- To provide erosion control: The root system of Bush Penstemon helps stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion.
- For artistic inspiration: The striking white flowers of the 'Albus' variety can inspire artists and photographers.
- As an educational tool: It can be used in gardens and schools to educate on native plants and their role in local ecosystems.
- In companion planting: Bush Penstemon may benefit other plants by attracting beneficial insects or providing ground cover.
- For ornamental garden borders: They can create aesthetically pleasing garden borders with their bushy form and attractive foliage.
- In ceremonial uses: Some indigenous cultures may use the plant in traditional ceremonies for its symbolic value or beauty.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bush Penstemon is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bush Penstemon is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Penstemon, often known as the beardtongue, typically grows in tough environments, symbolizing the ability to endure challenges and thrive in difficult conditions.
- Resilience: Beardtongue's capacity to bounce back after being disturbed or damaged reflects resilience and the strength to recover from adversity.
- Attractiveness: Beardtongue flowers' vivid colors and unique shape symbolize an attractive and engaging personality, likely due to their appealing look to pollinators in nature.
- Versatility: With its variety of species and adaptability to different habitats, the beardtongue represents versatility and adaptability to life's various circumstances.
- Healing: In some traditions, certain Penstemon species are recognized for their medicinal properties, representing healing and therapeutic qualities.
WaterFor the Shrubby Penstemon, it is crucial to maintain a balance in watering -- they prefer well-drained soil, so avoid overwatering. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water, which typically equates to around 0.5 gallons for an average-sized plant. During hot, dry spells, the frequency of watering may need to increase to every few days to prevent the soil from completely drying out. However, always check the soil moisture before watering to ensure it has somewhat dried since the last watering, as Shrubby Penstemon is sensitive to waterlogged conditions.
LightShrubby Penstemons thrive in full sunlight conditions, which means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for these plants is in an area where they are exposed to morning sunlight and protected from the intense afternoon heat if possible, although they can tolerate a full day of sun in cooler climates.
TemperatureThe optimum temperature range for Shrubby Penstemon is generally between 60°F and 75°F, but they are quite cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F. In terms of maximum temperature, they can survive brief periods of heat above 90°F but will fare best when not subjected to extended periods of high heat.
PruningPruning Shrubby Penstemon is important to encourage bushier growth and to remove spent flower spikes, which promotes further blooming. Prune in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins, by cutting back the previous year's growth by about one third. Deadheading, or the removal of faded flowers, should be done regularly throughout the flowering season to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage more blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Mock Orange Penstemon thrives in well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with a pH range between 6.8 and 7.2. A mixture of loamy garden soil, sand, and a bit of compost or peat moss to add fertility and improve drainage is ideal. Regular garden soil can be amended with small gravel or perlite to enhance drainage.
RepottingMock Orange Penstemons should be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and promote healthy root growth. This timing can be adjusted based on the plant's growth rate and the size of its container; if it becomes root-bound or the soil deteriorates, it may need more frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingMock Orange Penstemon prefers a moderate humidity level, around 40-50%, which closely mimics its natural arid to semi-arid habitats. Overly humid environments can promote fungal diseases, so it's critical to maintain proper air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, well-draining soil, avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleBush Penstemon 'Albus' initiates its life cycle as a seed typically dispersed from the parent plant. Upon finding a suitable environment with well-drained soil and enough sunlight, the seed will germinate, often in late winter or early spring. The seedling then develops into a young plant with a small rosette of leaves close to the ground. As it matures, the Bush Penstemon 'Albus' grows upright, producing stems, leaves, and by late spring to early summer, it shows dense clusters of white, tubular flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers produce small capsules containing numerous seeds. The plant may die back in winter, especially in colder climates, but it's a perennial and will regrow from its rootstock with the onset of warmer weather.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Penstemon fruticosus var. scouleri 'Albus', commonly known as Scouler's Penstemon, is typically propagated by seed. The most popular method of propagation for Scouler's Penstemon is sowing seeds, and this is best done in late winter to early spring. To do so, you should sow the seeds thinly onto a well-drained soil mix, just covering them with a fine layer of soil or vermiculite. The soil should be kept moist but not wet, and the containers should be placed in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse. Germination can be erratic, so patience is required. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are ready to be planted out into their final position after the risk of frost has passed.
