Penstemon hirsutus, Hairy Beardtongue


Penstemon hirsutus, Hairy Beardtongue

Hairy Beardtongue is not native to Minnesota, but is what Shelterwood terms a near-native. We grow and sell this plant because it is such an under-appreciated garden plant, blooming in May through June in nearly every condition but the most dense shade or most wet soils. With semi-translucent, multi-colored flowers that can seem to glow at times, it doesn't grow out of bounds while remaining relatively short. You don't need to be a native plant enthusiast to appreciate Hairy Beardtongue.

If you are only seeking beardtongue native to our region, I recommend Penstemon gracilis, Slender Beardtongue, as it has similar flowers and stature, if not identical in form. 

Bloom: white, pale pink, pale blue-purple, May through June

Height: 16 to 24 inches

Conditions: sun to part shade, medium moist to medium dry soils