Penstemon grandiflorus 'Prairie Jewel'

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.

'Prairie Jewel' is an improvement on our showy native Penstemon with tall spikes of white to lavender-pink to deep purple flowers. Silvery rosettes remain attractive throughout the growing season. 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.

Distinctions: Plant Selects Winner 2000

Zones: 3 to 9

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Type: Herbaceous Perennial

Height: 18 to 36 in.

Spread: 8 to 12 in.

Exposure: Full Sun

Soil: Dry, Well-drained, Average

Bloom Time: May to August

Native Range: mid and southwest US