Penstemon digitalis, commonly known as foxglove beardtongue, is a herbaceous perennial plant in the family Plantaginaceae. Native to North America, it thrives in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. This plant grows up to 3 feet tall and features lance-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs along the stem.
The flowers of Penstemon digitalis are tubular with five lobes and exhibit a white color with hints of pink or lavender. They bloom from late spring through early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Historically, Native Americans have used Penstemon digitalis for medicinal purposes, treating ailments such as coughs, sore throats, and fever. Additionally, it is popular in gardens for its attractive flowers and pollinator-friendly properties.
In summary, Penstemon digitalis is an easy-to-grow perennial that enhances garden beauty and provides ecological benefits by attracting pollinators.
Foxglove beardtongue gets its name from the Latin word "digitus," meaning "finger," because the flowers resemble fingers inside a glove. The plant is also known as beardtongue due to its unique sterile stamen, which is adorned with a tuft of small hairs. This combination of characteristics is why it is called Foxglove beardtongue.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Penstemon
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 0.91 m to 1.52 m
- Mature Spread
- 46 cm to 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Purple
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen, Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.20 cm to 0.25 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
