Penstemon 'Ghent Purple'


Common name(s): beardtongue


Description: perennial; low-growing and ideal for the front of a border or garden bed. Serrated foliage and small, tubular purple flowers with streaked white throats. Blooms from summer until first frost.


Height: to 18 in. Spread: to 3 ft.


Position: full sun and well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators


Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Care: prune to 6 inches above the ground in spring (after all danger of last frost) to rejuvenate foliage. Adding a 1-2 inch layer of gravel around the base increases survivability and prevents crown rot. Cutting back spent blooms in summer will encourage more blooming but is not necessary. No fertilizer.