Penstemon kunthii
Common name(s): beardtongue
Description: perennial; an impressively cold hardy species native to Southern Mexico. Strong, arching growth that won't flop under the weight of it's copious red trumpet flowers. Long-lived and long-blooming from summer until first frost. No garden should be without it.
Height: to 2 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.
Position: full sun and well-draining soil
Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators
Winter Hardiness: to 5 F and below
Distribution: SW Mexico
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.
