Penstemon grandiflorus

Large Beardtongue is a US native that can be found growing in dry sandy or gravelly soils in prairies of the northern Great Plains and sometimes further south. It is a beauty with large flowers and succulent-like blue-green-gray leaves.

P. grandiflorus is the showiest of all the native Penstemon with tall spikes of lavender-pink flowers that pollinators adore. The flower show is short (only 2-3 weeks), but the attractive silver-blue foliage earns this plant a place in our gardens. Grow it in sandy, gravelly soil for best results.

Hudson Valley Gardeners: We will be the first to admit that Penstemon are not particularly easy plants to grow in the Northeast. They are easy in their first growing season, but they need fertile yet exceptionally well-drained soil in order to establish successfully. They also need some level of protection from drying spring winds. We think they are worth the effort as they make a wonderful addition to the low-water garden. Additionally, it is easy to maintain a continual supply by taking cuttings.

Tip: Deadheading in the first two years will encourage stronger plants.

Zones: 3 to 8

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Type: Herbaceous Perennial

Height: 24 to 48 in.

Spread: 12 to 18 in.

Exposure: Full Sun

Soil: Dry, Well-drained, Average

Bloom Time: June to August

Native Range: Minnesota to Texas