How to Grow Beardtongue
Wikimedia Commons
Beardtongue
Penstemon species
flowerBeardtongue is a diverse genus of North American native perennials and short-lived perennials known for their tubular, two-lipped flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees. The flowers range in color from red, pink, purple, and blue to white and bicolor varieties. These hardy, drought-tolerant plants are excellent for native gardens, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Beardtongue in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Beardtongue timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Beardtongue
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Beardtongue blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Beardtongue dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Most species thrive in zones 4-8, with some hardy varieties surviving zone 3 and heat-tolerant types extending to zone 9
Sign up free to see if Beardtongue grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Beardtongue timeline →Growth Stages
Seed & Germination
3-6 weeksTiny seeds require light and cool stratification. Seedlings emerge slowly over 2-4 weeks.
Stratify seeds 4-6 weeks in refrigerator. Sow on soil surface under lights or in cool greenhouse. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Do not cover seeds.
Seedling & Rosette
8-16 weeksYoung plants develop a basal rosette of narrow to lance-shaped leaves. Growth is slow in first year.
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Provide bright light. Avoid fertilizing. Thin seedlings to proper spacing. Transplant outdoors in late spring after last frost.
Vegetative Growth
Several months to 1 yearPlant establishes roots and builds leaf mass. Upright stems elongate. Many species are biennial and require a dormant winter period before flowering.
Allow winter dormancy; do not deadhead in fall as this can inhibit spring flowering. Water during drought. Minimal fertilizing needed. Remove any dead foliage in spring.
Flowering
4-8 weeksTall spikes emerge with tubular flowers opening in succession from bottom to top. Blooms attract hummingbirds and bees.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent excessive self-seeding. Stake tall varieties if needed. Provide consistent moderate water during bloom.
Seed Production & Dormancy
4-8 weeks; then dormancyFlowers fade and develop seed capsules. Plant energy shifts to seed ripening. Foliage may decline in heat.
Allow some flower spikes to mature for seed collection if desired. Cut back after frost or in early spring. Reduce watering. Mulch perennials for winter protection in colder zones.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
and
Hand-pick, use copper barriers, apply diatomaceous earth, or use slug baits in damp spring conditions
-
Increase humidity, spray with water to dislodge, use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe
-
Strong water spray, insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce natural predators
-
Improve soil drainage, avoid overwatering, remove affected plants, sterilize tools
-
Ensure good air circulation, reduce humidity, apply sulfur dust or fungicide if needed
Uses
Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeBeardtongue flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds and native bees, making it a cornerstone plant for pollinator gardens and restoration projects. The tubular shape and abundant nectar support long-tongued bees and hovering hummingbirds. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinarySome Penstemon species have been used historically by Native Americans as a minor food source, and the flowers are edible with a mildly sweet flavor. Modern use is primarily ornamental garnish. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalVarious Penstemon species have been used in traditional Native American medicine for treating respiratory issues and digestive ailments, though scientific evidence is limited and modern medicinal use is rare. [source]
Cut Flowers & Dried Arrangements
CraftTall varieties like Penstemon digitalis make excellent cut flowers for fresh bouquets, and dried seed heads add texture to dried flower arrangements and floral crafts. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
HouseholdBeardtongue excels in xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens, reducing irrigation needs while providing season-long color and structure in rock gardens, prairie plantings, and naturalized settings. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Beardtongue is primarily ornamental but can be deadheaded to encourage extended blooming. To collect seeds: allow some flower spikes to dry on plant, then cut seed heads and collect brown capsules. Sow seeds fresh or store dry in cool, dark place for spring sowing.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The genus name 'Penstemon' comes from Greek 'penta' (five) and 'stemon' (stamen), referring to the five stamens, though only four are fertile—the fifth is sterile and often hairy, inspiring the common name 'Beardtongue.'
- 🌱 Hummingbirds are so attracted to Penstemon that gardeners often see the same birds returning daily during bloom season, making it one of the most reliable hummingbird plants in North America.
- 🌱 Beardtongue is primarily native to the American West, with the greatest diversity in the Rocky Mountain and Southwest regions, making it a culturally significant wildflower across multiple Native American tribes.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Beardtongue planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Beardtongue seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Beardtongue timeline →