Product Description
Penstemon 'Prairie Dusk' (25) Bare Root Plants
Common Name: Beardtongue (because sterile stamen has a tuft of small hairs).
Rose-purple, trumpet-shaped flowers are borne in profusion on thin spikes in early summer.
Penstemons are very drought tolerant perennials that are easy to grow and are rarely bothered by insects or diseases. Plant them in full sun and watch as hummingbirds feast on their delicious nectar. Penstemons should be grown in full sun and very well-drained soil to avoid root rot. Soil fertility need only be average, but a light mulch in winter is recommended. Use Penstemons in the border, for naturalizing, and for cut flowers.
Height: 24.0-30.0 Inches
Spread: 15.0-18.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8
Flower Color: Pink shades - Purple shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low to Average Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Summer
Attracts Hummingbirds
Bee Friendly
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Drought Tolerant, Easy To Grow, Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant
Penstemon 'Prairie Dusk' is a beautiful and resilient perennial that adds a touch of vibrant color to any garden. Here is what you need to know about it:
Appearance:
- Flowers: It boasts stunning rosy purple, trumpet-shaped blooms that are borne on tall, slender spikes. These flowers are not only visually appealing but also attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Foliage: The plant features lance-shaped, deep green leaves that form a neat, compact mound.
Growing Conditions:
- Hardiness Zones: It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4a to 9b, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
- Sunlight: It prefers full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Soil: It requires well-drained soil and is adaptable to various types of soil, including sandy and rocky soils.
- Water: Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. However, it is essential to provide regular watering during the first year to help it establish its roots.
Care:
- Fertilizing: It generally does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
- Pruning: Deadheading spent flowers can encourage continuous blooming. In late fall or early spring, you can cut back the plant to promote bushier growth.
- Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the plant can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the plant during harsh winters.
Benefits:
- Attracts pollinators: Its vibrant flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, it can withstand dry conditions, making it a low-maintenance option for water-wise gardens.
- Deer and rabbit resistant: It is generally not preferred by deer and rabbits, making it a good choice for gardens where these animals are a concern.
Uses:
- Borders: It adds vertical interest and vibrant color to garden borders.
- Cottage gardens: Its charming flowers blend well with the informal style of cottage gardens.
- Pollinator gardens: It provides a valuable nectar source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
- Containers: It can also be grown in containers, allowing you to enjoy its beauty on patios and balconies.
Companion Plants:
- Achillea (Yarrow): The contrasting colors and textures of yarrow and penstemon create a visually appealing combination.
- Echinacea (Coneflower): Both plants thrive in similar conditions and offer a long bloom time.
- Grasses: Ornamental grasses add movement and texture to the garden while complementing the upright form of penstemon.
Overall, Penstemon 'Prairie Dusk' is a beautiful, low-maintenance, and beneficial plant that can enhance any garden. Its vibrant flowers, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators make it a valuable addition to various garden styles.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
