Saturday, March 8, 2014
The Consequences of a Life Disconnected
I noticed today that the Jacarandas are flowering again. Here in South Africa, the purple portent was a signal to students to start studying for end of year exams. If you waited until they layed their purple carpet below the tree you were already in big trouble. How many of these natural signs do we pay attention to these days?
In the past, our ability to survive depended on our intimate knowledge, and connection with nature. Wed be watching for the migration of birds, or the lengthening of shadows to guide our decision making in everything from when to plant vegetables, to when to propose marriage.
In our modern day lifestyle, we live our lives very disconnected from nature. Seasons come and go, and we hardly notice the changes, cocooned in our temperature regulated environments. Food no longer comes from last seasons planned planting, but is neatly packaged at the local supermarket for our last-minute convenience.
Both are perfect examples of our great sophistication, our triumph over the capriciousness of life, and our ability to design our landscape to suit us. But what happened to working with nature? Good design has to be more than imposing our will on our environment, surely its got to include a harmonious relationship with the landscape.
Im far from being ready to return to an agrarian existence, and finding ways to keep chickens in my 3rd floor apartment - as much as my cat would argue for the perfect logic of that decision. Nor do I plan on basing my decisions on the changing seasons, when science can give such exact information. But I just wonder if the repercussions of this basic disconnection are more insidious and far-reaching than we imagine.
In the past, our ability to survive depended on our intimate knowledge, and connection with nature. Wed be watching for the migration of birds, or the lengthening of shadows to guide our decision making in everything from when to plant vegetables, to when to propose marriage.
In our modern day lifestyle, we live our lives very disconnected from nature. Seasons come and go, and we hardly notice the changes, cocooned in our temperature regulated environments. Food no longer comes from last seasons planned planting, but is neatly packaged at the local supermarket for our last-minute convenience.
Both are perfect examples of our great sophistication, our triumph over the capriciousness of life, and our ability to design our landscape to suit us. But what happened to working with nature? Good design has to be more than imposing our will on our environment, surely its got to include a harmonious relationship with the landscape.
Im far from being ready to return to an agrarian existence, and finding ways to keep chickens in my 3rd floor apartment - as much as my cat would argue for the perfect logic of that decision. Nor do I plan on basing my decisions on the changing seasons, when science can give such exact information. But I just wonder if the repercussions of this basic disconnection are more insidious and far-reaching than we imagine.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Sarcococca Sweet Box
A genus or tribe of ornamental, evergreen shrubs related to the Boxwoods. They are mostly native to moist, dense forests of the Himalayas and western China and are moderate in growth rate.
They prefer neutral to alkaline soil with plenty of leaf compost or humus worked in.
They grow fastest in moist partial shade but can tolerate deep shade, dry shade and even full sun with moister soil. These very hardy, easy to grow shrubs and groundcover also tolerate pollution, rarely need pruning and are virtually immune to insect pests, diseases and deer.
Suckering species can be divided, otherwise propagation is generally from seed or half hardened cuttings taken in summer. Ripened seed is sown immediately after removing the pulp. If protected from frost; Sarcococcas can also be reproduced from hardwood cuttings taken in autumn and rooted in a cold frame.
Sarcococca confusa ( Enigmatic Sweet Box )
An attractive, vigorous, evergreen shrub reaching up to 5 feet or very rarely as much as 8 x 13 feet. No cultivars are known and are unlikely to occur since this plant shows no variation when grown from seed. It is extinct in the wild.
The leathery, wavy-edged, elliptical leaves, up to 2.5 x 1 inch in size, are very glossy, deep green above, pale beneath.
In late winter it bears clusters of extremely fragrant, creamy-white flowers that are quickly followed by bright red berries that darken to black as they ripen during autumn. The berries are very persistent, lasting into spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 10 and no leaf damage occurs to as cold as 7 F.
It is drought tolerant and not bothered by insects or disease.
* photo taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Dec 6 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 30 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Sarcococca hookeriana
The Himalayan Sweet Box from China is a moderate growing ( to 1.5 feet in a year ) evergreen thicket forming shrub that often spreads by suckers to a total size of 6.5 x 13 feet. Heights are much as 10 feet have been reported in its native range.
The lance-shaped to narrow elliptic leaves, up to 4.3 x 1.3 ( rarely over 3 ) inches, are glossy bright green, later turning to deep green.
The very fragrant, white flowers are borne during autumn.
They are followed by rounded, black berries.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in shade or sun ( not drought tolerant in sun ) on fertile, light neutral to alkaline soils. Tolerates drought ( in shade ) and pollution.
subsp Dignya
Leaves are larger to 4.5 x 1.3 inches and the flowers are off white.
The stems are reddish.
Sarcococca hookeriana humilis ( Himalayan Sweet Box ) -
A beautiful, suckering, low, groundcover form of Sarcococca hookeriana, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 8 ( extremely long lived - average landscape size is about 1 x 4 ) feet, that is native to mountainous parts of China. A clump can spread in width at a rate of up to 0.6 feet per year though I have personally observed runners excceding a foot on exceptionally vigorous plants. A new clone of var humilis called Sarsid is taller and more vigorous, reaching as much as 2.5 x 3.5 feet in 7 years and taking only 2 years to produce a 1 gallon size plant.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are glossy deep green throughout the year.
The very small, scented, white ( with pink anthers ) flowers are borne during autumn.
They are followed by small, globular, black berries.
Hardy zones 6 to 10 ( tolerates as low as -15 F ) in shade or sun ( if kept moist ) on fertile, light, neutral to alkaline soil. Tolerates deep shade, pollution, drought ( in shade only ) and alkaline soil. If a severe winter causes freeze damage however rare, cut it back hard, do not give up on it because it may resprout by the time summer arrives.
Propagate from seed sown during autumn or by semi-ripe cuttings taken during summer.
* photo taken @ U.S. National Arboretum on Aug 2004
* photo taken from Columbia, MD landscape install
* photo taken on May 5 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on May 16 2010 @ Cylburn Arboretum, Baltimore, MD
* photo taken on annual Horticultural Society of Maryland Garden Tour
* photos taken on Sep 14 2012 in Columbia, MD
Purple Stem
A cultivar of the subspecies Dignya
Flowers are pink tinged and the young shoots are magenta-purple in color.
Leaves are larger to 4.5 x 1 inches.
* photos taken on Mar 23 2011 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Sarsid 1
* photo taken on July 15 2013 in Harford Co., MD
* photo taken on Sep 21 2013 in Harford Co., MD
Sarcococca orientalis ( Oriental Sarcococca )
A handsome, moderate growing, suckering evergreen shrub that is similar to Sarcococca confusa, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 13 feet ( 3 x 4 feet in 10 years ), that is native to eastern China. It makes an excellent tall groundcover. Very old stands in its native range have been reported to reach 10 feet in height.
The closely-spaced, smooth-edged leaves, up to 3.5 x 1.5 inches, are glossy deep green.
The foliage remains attractive all year.
The fragrant, white flowers, up to 0.5 inches, are borne winter into early spring.
They are followed by glossy black berries.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 on protected sites ) in partial to full shade, preferring cool, moist, well drained soil though is tolerant of dry shade. It is easy to grow.
Sarcococca ruscifolia
A thick, bushy, suckering, rounded shrub native to the Himalayas and western China. It typically reaches up to 4 feet tall though sometimes as much as 7 x 7 feet in height and width. Heights up to 13 feet have been reported on very old stands in its native range.
The evergreen, lance-shaped, taper pointed leaves, up to 3 x 1.3 inches, are glossy deep green.
The perfumed, creamy-white clustered flowers are borne during winter. They are later followed by dark red, rounded fruit, up to 0.25 inches across.
Hardy zones 6 to 10 and tolerant of very dry soils in shade and also deep shade. Foliage browns at slightly colder than 10 F but the stems can survive lower temperatures. Very heat and humidity tolerant.
* photo taken on 4th of July 2010 in Washington, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 5 2013 in Elkridge, MD
subsp. Chinensis
fast growing, with supposedly narrower foliage.
Sarcococca saligna ( Willowleaf Sweet Box )
A handsome, long-lived, thicket forming, rhizomatous, suckering, graceful, evergreen shrub native to the Himalayas from Afghanistan to Nepal that typically reaches 5 x 8 feet though sometimes much larger on ideal sites. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 2 feet; 6 years - 6 feet in height; largest on record - 17 x 20 feet ( over 10 feet not known outside native range ).
The narrow, lance-shaped leaves, up to 6 x 1 inches, are bright green.
The flowers in winter and early spring are NOT scented unlike most Sarcococcas.
They are followed by oval, deep purple fruits.
Hardy zones 7 to 11 and will resprout if frozen to the ground. It is known to tolerate as least 4 F with no dieback. Heat tolerant, even in Texas. It is easy to root from softwood cuttings under mist during June.
Sarcococca wallichii
Moderate growing, dense, evergreen shrub, reaching up to 10 x 5 ( rarely over 6 ) feet in size, that is native to Xizang, Yunnan, Bhutan, northeast India, Burma, Nepal.
The leaves, up to 4 x 2 ( averaging 3 x 1.2 ) inches in size, are glossy bright green, later turning to deep green. The leaves are 3-veined.
The abundant highly fragrant, white flowers are borne during winter.
Hardy zones 8 to 9, requiring a maritime climate such as milder parts of the British Isles or Pacific Northwest.
Read More..
They prefer neutral to alkaline soil with plenty of leaf compost or humus worked in.
They grow fastest in moist partial shade but can tolerate deep shade, dry shade and even full sun with moister soil. These very hardy, easy to grow shrubs and groundcover also tolerate pollution, rarely need pruning and are virtually immune to insect pests, diseases and deer.
Suckering species can be divided, otherwise propagation is generally from seed or half hardened cuttings taken in summer. Ripened seed is sown immediately after removing the pulp. If protected from frost; Sarcococcas can also be reproduced from hardwood cuttings taken in autumn and rooted in a cold frame.
Sarcococca confusa ( Enigmatic Sweet Box )
An attractive, vigorous, evergreen shrub reaching up to 5 feet or very rarely as much as 8 x 13 feet. No cultivars are known and are unlikely to occur since this plant shows no variation when grown from seed. It is extinct in the wild.
The leathery, wavy-edged, elliptical leaves, up to 2.5 x 1 inch in size, are very glossy, deep green above, pale beneath.
In late winter it bears clusters of extremely fragrant, creamy-white flowers that are quickly followed by bright red berries that darken to black as they ripen during autumn. The berries are very persistent, lasting into spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 10 and no leaf damage occurs to as cold as 7 F.
It is drought tolerant and not bothered by insects or disease.
* photo taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on Dec 6 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 30 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Sarcococca hookeriana
The Himalayan Sweet Box from China is a moderate growing ( to 1.5 feet in a year ) evergreen thicket forming shrub that often spreads by suckers to a total size of 6.5 x 13 feet. Heights are much as 10 feet have been reported in its native range.
The lance-shaped to narrow elliptic leaves, up to 4.3 x 1.3 ( rarely over 3 ) inches, are glossy bright green, later turning to deep green.
The very fragrant, white flowers are borne during autumn.
They are followed by rounded, black berries.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in shade or sun ( not drought tolerant in sun ) on fertile, light neutral to alkaline soils. Tolerates drought ( in shade ) and pollution.
subsp Dignya
Leaves are larger to 4.5 x 1.3 inches and the flowers are off white.
The stems are reddish.
Sarcococca hookeriana humilis ( Himalayan Sweet Box ) -
A beautiful, suckering, low, groundcover form of Sarcococca hookeriana, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 8 ( extremely long lived - average landscape size is about 1 x 4 ) feet, that is native to mountainous parts of China. A clump can spread in width at a rate of up to 0.6 feet per year though I have personally observed runners excceding a foot on exceptionally vigorous plants. A new clone of var humilis called Sarsid is taller and more vigorous, reaching as much as 2.5 x 3.5 feet in 7 years and taking only 2 years to produce a 1 gallon size plant.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are glossy deep green throughout the year.
The very small, scented, white ( with pink anthers ) flowers are borne during autumn.
They are followed by small, globular, black berries.
Hardy zones 6 to 10 ( tolerates as low as -15 F ) in shade or sun ( if kept moist ) on fertile, light, neutral to alkaline soil. Tolerates deep shade, pollution, drought ( in shade only ) and alkaline soil. If a severe winter causes freeze damage however rare, cut it back hard, do not give up on it because it may resprout by the time summer arrives.
Propagate from seed sown during autumn or by semi-ripe cuttings taken during summer.
* photo taken @ U.S. National Arboretum on Aug 2004
* photo taken from Columbia, MD landscape install
* photo taken on May 5 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on May 16 2010 @ Cylburn Arboretum, Baltimore, MD
* photo taken on annual Horticultural Society of Maryland Garden Tour
* photos taken on Sep 14 2012 in Columbia, MD
Purple Stem
A cultivar of the subspecies Dignya
Flowers are pink tinged and the young shoots are magenta-purple in color.
Leaves are larger to 4.5 x 1 inches.
* photos taken on Mar 23 2011 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
Sarsid 1
* photo taken on July 15 2013 in Harford Co., MD
* photo taken on Sep 21 2013 in Harford Co., MD
Sarcococca orientalis ( Oriental Sarcococca )
A handsome, moderate growing, suckering evergreen shrub that is similar to Sarcococca confusa, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 13 feet ( 3 x 4 feet in 10 years ), that is native to eastern China. It makes an excellent tall groundcover. Very old stands in its native range have been reported to reach 10 feet in height.
The closely-spaced, smooth-edged leaves, up to 3.5 x 1.5 inches, are glossy deep green.
The foliage remains attractive all year.
The fragrant, white flowers, up to 0.5 inches, are borne winter into early spring.
They are followed by glossy black berries.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 on protected sites ) in partial to full shade, preferring cool, moist, well drained soil though is tolerant of dry shade. It is easy to grow.
Sarcococca ruscifolia
A thick, bushy, suckering, rounded shrub native to the Himalayas and western China. It typically reaches up to 4 feet tall though sometimes as much as 7 x 7 feet in height and width. Heights up to 13 feet have been reported on very old stands in its native range.
The evergreen, lance-shaped, taper pointed leaves, up to 3 x 1.3 inches, are glossy deep green.
The perfumed, creamy-white clustered flowers are borne during winter. They are later followed by dark red, rounded fruit, up to 0.25 inches across.
Hardy zones 6 to 10 and tolerant of very dry soils in shade and also deep shade. Foliage browns at slightly colder than 10 F but the stems can survive lower temperatures. Very heat and humidity tolerant.
* photo taken on 4th of July 2010 in Washington, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 5 2013 in Elkridge, MD
subsp. Chinensis
fast growing, with supposedly narrower foliage.
Sarcococca saligna ( Willowleaf Sweet Box )
A handsome, long-lived, thicket forming, rhizomatous, suckering, graceful, evergreen shrub native to the Himalayas from Afghanistan to Nepal that typically reaches 5 x 8 feet though sometimes much larger on ideal sites. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 2 feet; 6 years - 6 feet in height; largest on record - 17 x 20 feet ( over 10 feet not known outside native range ).
The narrow, lance-shaped leaves, up to 6 x 1 inches, are bright green.
The flowers in winter and early spring are NOT scented unlike most Sarcococcas.
They are followed by oval, deep purple fruits.
Hardy zones 7 to 11 and will resprout if frozen to the ground. It is known to tolerate as least 4 F with no dieback. Heat tolerant, even in Texas. It is easy to root from softwood cuttings under mist during June.
Sarcococca wallichii
Moderate growing, dense, evergreen shrub, reaching up to 10 x 5 ( rarely over 6 ) feet in size, that is native to Xizang, Yunnan, Bhutan, northeast India, Burma, Nepal.
The leaves, up to 4 x 2 ( averaging 3 x 1.2 ) inches in size, are glossy bright green, later turning to deep green. The leaves are 3-veined.
The abundant highly fragrant, white flowers are borne during winter.
Hardy zones 8 to 9, requiring a maritime climate such as milder parts of the British Isles or Pacific Northwest.
Rock Cress
Arabis
Arabis alpina
A dwarf perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 2 feet.
The pure white flowers are borne mid to late spring.
Arabis blepharophylla ( Coast Rock Cress )
A very attractive, spreading, tufted perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 5 feet, that is native to coastal California.
The fuzzy, stiff leaves, up to 3 inches in length, are green.
The sweetly fragrant, white or pink, 4-petalled flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil. It is moderately drought tolerant. It may be somewhat short-lived but self seeds easily.
Spring Charm
Showy, intense rose-pink flowers, on a compact plant, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet at most.
Arabis caucasica ( Caucasian Rock Cress )
A fast growing, low, spreading, semi-evergreen, bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 4 feet. It looks great on banks or trailing over walls. It is native to the Caucasus Mountains in western Asia as well as northern Iran.
The toothed, elliptical leaves, up to 4 x 1.7 inches, are mid-green.
The profuse, white flowers, up to 0.8 inches wide, are borne early spring into early summer. Sporadic blooms may appear later in the summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil. It is moderately drought tolerant. Shear lightly after blooming to encourage fresh growth.
* photos taken on May 14 2012 in Columbia, MD
Coccinea
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 x 20 inches, with deep red flowers.
Compinkie
Vigorous but compact and low, reaching a maximum size of 10 inches x 2 feet.
The persistent flowers are pink.
Plena
Also called Flore Pleno. Very showy, double, pure-white flowers over a much longer season, otherwise identical. It does not produce seed.
Rosabella
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 x 20 inches, with pink flowers.
Snowcap
A low, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 4 feet.
The woolly leaves are gray.
The white flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8.
Variegata
Green foliage is boldly edged in creamy-white.
The flowers are pink or white.
Prune out any stems with all green foliage.
Arabis ferdinandi-cobergii
A creeping but not invasive, evergreen, mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 ( rarely over 6 ) inches x 1.5 feet, that is native to Greece.
The white flowers are borne on umbels during early to mid spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant.
It is generally easy to grow.
Old Gold
Reaching a maximum size of 6 inches x 1.5 feet, with golden-yellow variegation.
The flowers are white.
Variegata
Reaches up to 1 x 2 feet, with foliage that is glossy deep green with white variegation. The foliage variegation sometimes turns pinkish during winter.
The flowers are white.
Arabis procurrens Glacier
A flat, low, mat-forming,evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 2 feet, that is native to mountains of southeastern Europe.
The leaves, up to 1.5 inches in length, are deep green.
The white flowers are borne mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant.
Arabis x sturii
A low, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 4 inches in height, with glossy green foliage and large, white flowers borne mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil. It is moderately drought tolerant.
Read More..
Arabis alpina
A dwarf perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 2 feet.
The pure white flowers are borne mid to late spring.
Arabis blepharophylla ( Coast Rock Cress )
A very attractive, spreading, tufted perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 5 feet, that is native to coastal California.
The fuzzy, stiff leaves, up to 3 inches in length, are green.
The sweetly fragrant, white or pink, 4-petalled flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil. It is moderately drought tolerant. It may be somewhat short-lived but self seeds easily.
Spring Charm
Showy, intense rose-pink flowers, on a compact plant, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet at most.
Arabis caucasica ( Caucasian Rock Cress )
A fast growing, low, spreading, semi-evergreen, bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 4 feet. It looks great on banks or trailing over walls. It is native to the Caucasus Mountains in western Asia as well as northern Iran.
The toothed, elliptical leaves, up to 4 x 1.7 inches, are mid-green.
The profuse, white flowers, up to 0.8 inches wide, are borne early spring into early summer. Sporadic blooms may appear later in the summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil. It is moderately drought tolerant. Shear lightly after blooming to encourage fresh growth.
* photos taken on May 14 2012 in Columbia, MD
Coccinea
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 x 20 inches, with deep red flowers.
Compinkie
Vigorous but compact and low, reaching a maximum size of 10 inches x 2 feet.
The persistent flowers are pink.
Plena
Also called Flore Pleno. Very showy, double, pure-white flowers over a much longer season, otherwise identical. It does not produce seed.
Rosabella
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 x 20 inches, with pink flowers.
Snowcap
A low, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 4 feet.
The woolly leaves are gray.
The white flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8.
Variegata
Green foliage is boldly edged in creamy-white.
The flowers are pink or white.
Prune out any stems with all green foliage.
Arabis ferdinandi-cobergii
A creeping but not invasive, evergreen, mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 ( rarely over 6 ) inches x 1.5 feet, that is native to Greece.
The white flowers are borne on umbels during early to mid spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant.
It is generally easy to grow.
Old Gold
Reaching a maximum size of 6 inches x 1.5 feet, with golden-yellow variegation.
The flowers are white.
Variegata
Reaches up to 1 x 2 feet, with foliage that is glossy deep green with white variegation. The foliage variegation sometimes turns pinkish during winter.
The flowers are white.
Arabis procurrens Glacier
A flat, low, mat-forming,evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 2 feet, that is native to mountains of southeastern Europe.
The leaves, up to 1.5 inches in length, are deep green.
The white flowers are borne mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant.
Arabis x sturii
A low, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 4 inches in height, with glossy green foliage and large, white flowers borne mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil. It is moderately drought tolerant.
Bloodroot
Sanguinaria canadensis
A fast growing, rhizomatous spreading perennial native to woodlands of eastern North America ( Manitoba to Nova Scotia; south to Oklahoma to Florida ). It can reach up to 1 or very rarely 2 feet in height and 20 inches in width.
The gray-green leaves are deeply lobed and scalloped, up to 8 x 12 inches; they die back to the ground in October ( earlier if summer drought occurs - will reappear following year ).
The anemone-like flowers are pure white, up to 1.5 inches across and are borne in early spring.
The sap is bright red.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in a cool partial to fully shady sites on moist, light, humus-rich, well drained soil. Propagation is from division of rhizomes as the plant begins to go dormant after blooming. Seed can be sown immediately upon ripening but may take as much as 1 1/2 years to germinate.
* photo taken on August 3 2010 @ University of Guelph Arboretum, Ontario
* photo taken on June 24 2011 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Apr 20 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 22 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken by Jennifer Anderson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Flore Pleno
Flowers are double and larger
Read More..
A fast growing, rhizomatous spreading perennial native to woodlands of eastern North America ( Manitoba to Nova Scotia; south to Oklahoma to Florida ). It can reach up to 1 or very rarely 2 feet in height and 20 inches in width.
The gray-green leaves are deeply lobed and scalloped, up to 8 x 12 inches; they die back to the ground in October ( earlier if summer drought occurs - will reappear following year ).
The anemone-like flowers are pure white, up to 1.5 inches across and are borne in early spring.
The sap is bright red.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in a cool partial to fully shady sites on moist, light, humus-rich, well drained soil. Propagation is from division of rhizomes as the plant begins to go dormant after blooming. Seed can be sown immediately upon ripening but may take as much as 1 1/2 years to germinate.
* photo taken on August 3 2010 @ University of Guelph Arboretum, Ontario
* photo taken on June 24 2011 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on Apr 20 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 22 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken by Jennifer Anderson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Flore Pleno
Flowers are double and larger
Looking for just the right landscaping plant
Finding the perfect landscaping plant is not such an easy job. There are so many different plants for you to choose from and each will have its own special ways that make is a great find for your yard. You can choose any kind of landscaping plant that will compliment your particular yard, just make sure that the landscaping plant that you choose can live in your climate. Not all landscaping plants can thrive in all areas so talk to your local plant specialist. The place where you usually get your plants may be able to help you with your selection of landscaping plant.
There are many different kinds of landscaping plants for you to choose from and some of the best ones are the ones that you would normally never think of. For example if you want to have a gorgeous border you can use sage plants. This is the perfect landscaping plant for any home especially yours. You can do so much with this great landscaping plant. Not only can you make wonderful borders with it you can also add them to pretty herb gardens.
What makes herb gardens to fun is that they are not only pretty to look at they are also practical. You can use all of the herbs that you grow as a landscaping plant in your cooking. Cooking with herbs is such a wonderful bonus to having a gorgeous landscaping plant.
When you are looking for a landscaping plant you will also need to take into consideration what time of year it happens to be. You cannot usually go into a gardening store looking for a landscaping plant in the middle of winter and find a summer bloom. Your shopping will have to be at least a little seasonal. Your landscaping plant, some of them anyway, will have to be purchased at certain times of the year.
You can find a landscaping plant that is annual or one that is perennial. An annual landscaping plant will need to be bought and purchased anew each year where as a perennial landscaping plant will grow back each year on its own. Some perennial plants like tulips for instance will double in number each year if left alone. When there gets to be too many in one spot of this kind of landscaping plant you can simply dig down and split some of them up and plant them elsewhere.
Angelica
Angelica
* photo of unknown internet source
Angelica amurensis ( Korean Angelica )
Also called Angelica cincta. A very large perennial, reaching up to 6.5 ( reported to be double that on Sakhalin ) feet in height, that is native to deciduous woodlands in far eastern Russia, northern China, Korea and Japan.
The divided leaves are 16 x 12 inches in size. The toothed ovate leaves are luxuriant mid-green.
The flowers are creamy-white.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 ( est ) in partial shade on moist soil.
Angelica archangelica ( Norwegian Angelica )
A spectacular large perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 x 6 feet, that is native to Greenland, Iceland and northern Europe.
The huge bipinnate leaves, up to 3 feet in length, are composed of many toothed leaflets, up to 3 inches in length. The attractive foliage is green.
The white flowers are borne on spectacular clusters during mid-summer.
Flowering does not occur until the second year.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. Propagation is from seed sown immediately upon ripening.
Angelica atropurpurea
A spectacular large perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 6.6 feet, that is native to riverbanks and moist to swampy woodlands.
It is usually grown as a focal point foliage plant.
The huge, bipinnate leaves, up to 2 feet across, are deep green at first, later turning to green with red veining.
The white flowers are borne on clusters, up to 10 inches across, during summer.
The stalks can be eaten like celery and actually taste similar.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. It is almost never bothered by insect pests or disease.
Angelica gigas ( Korean Archangel )
A striking perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 4 ( rarely over 6.5 ) feet, that is native to China, Korea and Japan.
The stunning, bold, deep green, bipinnate leaves, up to 16 x 12 inches in size, are borne on dark purple stems. The leaflets are ovate to triangular.
The deep purplish-red flowers are borne on large umbels, up to 3 inches across, during late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist, fertile soil. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. It is usually propagated from seed sown during spring. It is best to grow multiple plants around the garden and allow at least 1 to set seed to keep a continuous supply of this plant.
* video found on Youtube
Angelica pachycarpa
A very impressive perennial, reaching up to 4 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to Portugal and northwest Spain. It has naturalized in the New Zealand Alps.
The attractive, ternate leaves are thick, very leathery and very glossy deep green.
The very fragrant, white flowers are borne on umbels up to 8 inches across.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die.
Angelica sinensis ( Dong Quai )
A biennial or perennial ( if prevented from seeding ), reaching up to 3.3 x 2.7 feet in size, that is native to moist open woodlands in western China.
The white flowers are borne late summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
It is claimed to have many medicinal effects, however whether there is controversy regarding proof and safety of.
Angelica ursina
A gigantic perennial, reaching up to 13 feet with a stem diameter up to 3.5 inches, that is native to riverbanks in Kamchatka, Sakhalin, the southern Kuril Islands and northern Japan.
The huge basal leaves are up to 4.5 feet x 16 inches in size.
The white flowers are borne on gigantic flower heads.
Hardy zones 5 to 7 ( 4 on protected sites ) in full sun on deep, fertile, moist soil.
Read More..
* photo of unknown internet source
Angelica amurensis ( Korean Angelica )
Also called Angelica cincta. A very large perennial, reaching up to 6.5 ( reported to be double that on Sakhalin ) feet in height, that is native to deciduous woodlands in far eastern Russia, northern China, Korea and Japan.
The divided leaves are 16 x 12 inches in size. The toothed ovate leaves are luxuriant mid-green.
The flowers are creamy-white.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 ( est ) in partial shade on moist soil.
Angelica archangelica ( Norwegian Angelica )
A spectacular large perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 x 6 feet, that is native to Greenland, Iceland and northern Europe.
The huge bipinnate leaves, up to 3 feet in length, are composed of many toothed leaflets, up to 3 inches in length. The attractive foliage is green.
The white flowers are borne on spectacular clusters during mid-summer.
Flowering does not occur until the second year.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. Propagation is from seed sown immediately upon ripening.
Angelica atropurpurea
A spectacular large perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 6.6 feet, that is native to riverbanks and moist to swampy woodlands.
It is usually grown as a focal point foliage plant.
The huge, bipinnate leaves, up to 2 feet across, are deep green at first, later turning to green with red veining.
The white flowers are borne on clusters, up to 10 inches across, during summer.
The stalks can be eaten like celery and actually taste similar.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. It is almost never bothered by insect pests or disease.
Angelica gigas ( Korean Archangel )
A striking perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 4 ( rarely over 6.5 ) feet, that is native to China, Korea and Japan.
The stunning, bold, deep green, bipinnate leaves, up to 16 x 12 inches in size, are borne on dark purple stems. The leaflets are ovate to triangular.
The deep purplish-red flowers are borne on large umbels, up to 3 inches across, during late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist, fertile soil. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. It is usually propagated from seed sown during spring. It is best to grow multiple plants around the garden and allow at least 1 to set seed to keep a continuous supply of this plant.
* video found on Youtube
Angelica pachycarpa
A very impressive perennial, reaching up to 4 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to Portugal and northwest Spain. It has naturalized in the New Zealand Alps.
The attractive, ternate leaves are thick, very leathery and very glossy deep green.
The very fragrant, white flowers are borne on umbels up to 8 inches across.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die.
Angelica sinensis ( Dong Quai )
A biennial or perennial ( if prevented from seeding ), reaching up to 3.3 x 2.7 feet in size, that is native to moist open woodlands in western China.
The white flowers are borne late summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.
It is claimed to have many medicinal effects, however whether there is controversy regarding proof and safety of.
Angelica ursina
A gigantic perennial, reaching up to 13 feet with a stem diameter up to 3.5 inches, that is native to riverbanks in Kamchatka, Sakhalin, the southern Kuril Islands and northern Japan.
The huge basal leaves are up to 4.5 feet x 16 inches in size.
The white flowers are borne on gigantic flower heads.
Hardy zones 5 to 7 ( 4 on protected sites ) in full sun on deep, fertile, moist soil.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
landscape design drawings
Landscape Design tools as well as software can make home owner landscaping an actuality with the greatest resources for sale in all areas associated with landscape design pictures from landscaping ideas along with design for you to finishing variations. Should it really is for the Waterside improvement tasks, parks along with playgrounds as well as shopping heart, there will absolutely be available style tools/software which can be employed to address the specified landscape design and sketching requirements.
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| landscape design drawings |
AutoCAD facilitates clients within their Landscape Pulling tasks through the use of a wide variety of Computer design software including AutoCAD (Version -14 in order to 2005), Tiny Station Adt security, MDT, Inventor, Pro-E, Reliable Edge, Sound Works, Milliseconds Visio, and 2020. Besides AutoCAD, other helpful design equipment which can be found tend to be Coreldraw (CDR), Adobe Illustrator (Artificial intelligence), ArchiCAD, etc.
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-> New renderings for various scenery amenities
-> Paintings for Environmentally friendly roof style & Tree availability
-> CAD style for Waterflow and drainage improvements, lights, etc
-> 3 dimensional CAD modelling & drafting solutions
-> Compliance using local regulators & Coordination using your team
-> Levels
-> Foundation Ideas
-> Wall Portions, etc
>> Raster-to-Vector The conversion process
>> Landscape architecture drawings
>> Indoor rendering/planning drawings
>> Explaining of Rooms
-> Reflected Limit
-> Power syndication
-> Communication items
-> Plumbing, Air conditioning etc
>> Computer design conversion companies
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| landscape design drawings symbols |
Beards Tongue
Penstemon
All prefer full sun on well drained soil ( most do NOT like clay ) with either stone mulch or no mulch at all. Most species should not be fertilized too heavily since too much can shorten the life of the plant. It is important to NOT plant too deep as this can smother the crown. Only a few species of Penstemons native to the eastern U.S. are tolerant of hot humid summers, the remainder preferring climates such as the Great Plains and Rockies with dry heat and cool summer nights. Most Penstemons are very drought tolerant. It is recommended to cut back plants in very early spring before new growth begins. Be careful not to cut too far back on shrubby or evergreen varieties. Some species will rebloom if old flowerstalks are removed.
Many Penstemons can be pinched during late spring when they are a foot tall to encourage a more bushy habit.
All Penstemons also attract hummingbirds and are mostly rabbit and deer resistant.
Propagation is usually from division or softwood cuttings taken during spring. When growing from seed, place seed in containers with very light, well drained soil mix then sprinkle barely enough sand on top to cover them. Set outside in protected location and let natural freeze/thaw occur over winter to break dormancy. Keep the soil mix just damp over the winter...too much moisture will rot the seeds.
Excellent external link on Penstemons... http://www.wildgingerfarm.com/Penstemon.htm
* photo of unknown internet source
Penstemon alamosensis ( Alamo Canyon Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 1 feet, that is a rare native to the southwestern U.S.
The gray foliage is borne from dense, compact rosettes.
The bright orangish-coral flowers are borne on tall spikes.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on alkaline, light, very well drained soil. Very drought tolerant.
Penstemon albertinus
A perennial, reaching up to 16 inches in height, that is native to Alberta, Canada.
Its main attraction is spires of deep blue flowers.
Hardy zones 3 ot 6 in partial shade.
Penstemon alpinus
A clump-forming perennial, reaching up to 2.5 feet x 8+ inches ( usually under 1.5 feet ), that is native to the Rocky Mountains.
The broad leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The violet-red to blue ( with white throat ) flowers are borne during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon angustifolius ( Pagoda Penstemon )
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 1 foot in height, bearing bright blue flowers all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Great for containers.
Penstemon baccharifolius
An evergreen, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 2 x 3 feet.
The rose-red flowers are borne during spring and summer.
Hard7 zones 6 to 9 in full sun on very well drained soil. Tolerant of drought and alkaline soil.
Penstemon barbatus ( Coral Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 4 ( rarely over 4 ) feet, that is native to Utah, Colorado and New Mexico.
The narrow, lance-shaped, leathery, mid-green leaves, up to 8 inches in length forms a low, evergreen mound.
The rose-red, bearded-lipped, trumpet-shaped flowers, up to 1.6 inches in length, are borne on spikes from mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil, heat tolerant and moderately drought tolerant.
Blue Riding Hood
* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
Coccineus
Similar to species except for intense scarlet-red flowers.
Hardy zones 2 to 9, tolerating as low as -50 F.
Elfin Pink
Reaches up to 3 x 1.5 ( rarely over 1 ) feet, with attractive evergreen foliage and mid-pink flowers borne on dense long spikes.
Hyacinth Mix
Very hardy, compact, seed strain, reaching up to 1 foot, with flowers that can come in either pink, scarlet-red or blue.
Praecox Nanus Rondo
Reaches up to 1.5 x 3 feet, with scarlet-red, bell-shaped flowers borne early summer into early autumn.
* photos taken on June 16 2012 in Columbia, MD
Pinacolada Dark Rose
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 inches x 1 foot. The profuse bright rosy-pink flowers are borne during early summer.
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Pinacolada Violet
Dense and compact in habit, reaching up to 1 x 1.5 feet. The profuse violet-blue flowers are borne on panicles during early to mid summer, often repeat blooming into early autumn if deadheaded.
* photos taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Prairie Dusk
Intense purple flowers borne all summer long on sturdy stems, up to 2 feet high. Looks great with yellow flowering plants.
Red Riding Hood
A cultivar originating from the Netherlands, reaching up to 32 inches x 2 feet. The profuse, very large, white-lipped, intense bright-red flowers are borne late spring and all summer long. Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun. It is drought tolerant but also tolerates more humid conditions in the eastern U.S.
* photos taken on May 2012 in Columbia, MD
Rondo
* photos taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
Schooleys Coral
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 1.5 feet x 15 inches, with flowers that are yellow in bud, turning to pink, then finally to coral-pink when fully open.
The very profuse flowers are borne over a long season.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Penstemon cardinalis ( Cardinal Penstemon )
A moderate growing, upright perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 2 feet, that is a rare native to Pinyon-Juniper woodlands in the mountains of central New Mexico and far western Texas.
The elliptical leaves are up to 5 inches in length.
The intense scarlet-red flowers, up to 1.3 inches long, are borne on spikes during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on moist, well drained soil. It is very heat tolerant and can also tolerate the occasional drought once established.
Penstemon caespidata ( Mat Penstemon )
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Claude Barr
A mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 6 inches high, with bright purple flowers.
Penstemon campanulatus
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1 foot, that is native to the mountains of Mexico and Guatemala.
The toothed, lance-shaped leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The deep pink to purple flowers are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 9 to 10 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon canescens ( Eastern Gray Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to dry woods in eastern North America ( from Ontario to Pennsylvania; south to Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina ).
The saw-toothed, broad lance-shaped leaves, up to 6 inches in length, form a basal rosette. The foliage is deep green.
The pale-pink flowers, up to 2 inches, are borne on open panicles during late spring into early summer.
The downy stems are ashy-gray.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on light, well drained soil.
Propagation is typically from division during autumn or early spring.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
Penstemon clutei
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1.5 feet, bearing deep pink flowers.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soils. It will not survive in the humid east.
Penstemon cobaea Purpurea ( Foxglove Penstemon )
A rare, spectacular perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 1.5 feet, that is native to southern Missouri in the Ozarks. Short lived, often lasting only 4 years.
The large, glossy deep-green leaves form rosettes.
The large, lavender-purple flowers are borne on spikes during early summer lasting up to a month.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Easy to grow, tolerant of drought and poor soil. It is also tolerant of moist humid conditions in the eastern U.S.
Penstemon confertus
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1 feet, with lance-shaped leaves up to 2 inches in length and yellow flowers, up to 0.8 inches in length during summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9
Penstemon cristatus
A bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 1 foot.
The leaves are oval. The red-purple flowers are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon cyananthus ( Wasatch Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 feet in height, that is native from Idaho to Wyoming; south to Utah.
The bright blue flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Penstemon davidsonii
A mat-forming, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 2 feet, is native to the western U.S.
The elliptical leaves, up to 0.8 inches in length, are gray-green. The rich pink to deep-red flowers are borne on short inflorescences during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. ) in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon digitalis ( Foxglove Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to damp woods of eastern North America, from Michigan to Maine, south to Texas to Alabama.
The evergreen basal leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are blue-green.
The nodding, white to very pale purplish-pink, tubular flowers are borne on narrow spikes during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Very easy to grow, it thrives in just about any soil, including clay, that isnt extremely dry or boggy. Deer resistant.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 14 2013 in Columbia, MD
Dark Towers
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Husker Red
Similar except with deep red, later turning bronze-purple foliage contrasting well with white to very pale-pink flowers during early to mid summer.
The stems are also deep purple.
Great for mass plantings.
Many nurseries sell plants that do not have good color, these have often been grown from seed rather than cuttings.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photo of unknown internet source
* photo takens on Mar 7 2013 in Columbia, MD
Precious Gem
Reaches up to 3 feet, with attractive bronze foliage that contrasts well with pink flowers borne on showy spikes during early to mid summer.
Rachels Dance
Reaches up to 20 inches, with bright purplish-red leaves borne on deep red-brown stems. The foliage retains its color all season and contrasts well with the white to very pale pink flowers.
Penstemon eatonii ( Firecracker Penstemon )
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 4.3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet in height, that is native to the southwest U.S. incl. California.
The leaves are large and leathery.
The flowers are scarlet-red and are great for attracting hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Penstemon fruticosus ( Shrubby Penstemon )
A shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 feet x 20 inches, that is native to British Columbias arid interior; south to Oregon to Wyoming.
The leathery, evergreen foliage forms a bushy low mound. When mass planted, it can make a great groundcover.
The smooth-edged to lightly toothed, lance-shaped leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are green, turning to bronze during winter.
The very profuse, lavender-purple flowers, up to 1.6 inches, are borne during late spring into early summer. The flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 on very well drained soil. Very tolerant of drought, it does not like heavy, wet clay or over frequent irrigation.
Catherine de la Mare
lilac-blue flowers.
Purple Haze
Reaches up to 1.5 x 2 feet, with spectacular lilac-purple flowers.
Great for edging, rock gardens and cascading over landscape walls.
Penstemon gracilis
A long lived perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1.5 feet, that is native to North America, from British Columbia to Ontario, south to New Mexico to Wisconsin.
The leaves are up to 4.5 inches in length.
The white to soft lilac ( with yellow beard ), bell-shaped flowers are borne on thin stems from mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon grandiflorus ( Shell-Leaf Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 feet x 20 inches, that is native to central North America ( from Wyoming to North Dakota to Illinois; south to Texas ). It is endangered in the wild.
The attractive, leathery, rounded leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are blue-green.
The lavender flowers, up to 2 inches, are borne late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun. Tolerant of heat and drought.
Propagation is easy from seed and it often self sows.
Prairie Snow
Profuse white flowers.
Penstemon hartwegii
A bushy perennial, reaching up to 4 feet x 16 inches, that is native to Mexico.
The leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are rich-green.
The flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are bright scarlet-red.
Hardy zones 8 to 10
Penstemon haydenii
Among the rarest of all Penstemons. Full text description coming soon.
* photo of unknown internet source
Penstemon heterophyllus ( Foothill Penstemon )
A shubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 5 ( rarely over 2 x 3 ) feet,
that is native to California.
The narrow leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are glossy, deep blue-green.
The pinkish-blue to bright blue flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. ) in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Very drought tolerant.
Blue Bedder
Compact in habit, with flowers that are bright blue. In mild climates such as California, it may bloom up to 8 months of the year if deadheaded.
Heavenly Blue
Blue flowers.
var purdyi
Reaches up to 2 feet in height, and is native to California.
The attractive foliage is deep green.
The rich blue flowers are borne from spring into summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 10 in full sun in climates with 30 + inches of yearly rainfall. Cut back after first flush of blooms to encourage rebloom.
Penstemon hirsutus
A long lived ( 10 + years ), rapid spreading, clumping perennial, reaching up to 4 x 2 feet, that is native to dry sandy woods in eastern North America from Wisconsin to Quebec and Maine; south to Kentucky to Virginia.
The sharply-toothed, lance-shaped leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are green above, downy beneath. The bases of the upper leaves join around the stems. The green foliage turns to bronze during winter.
The violet flowers, up to an inch in width, are borne on a leafless inflorescence during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant. Tolerates hot, humid summers.
Pygmaeus
Reaches up to 6 x 10 inches with violet flowers borne all summer long.
Makes an excellent groundcover, even tolerating dry shade.
Penstemon linarioides ssp. coloradoensis
A tiny, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 1.5 x 2 feet, with green, needle-like leaves. The profuse flowers are purple.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon menziesii
A shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet, with toothed, oblong leaves and violet-blue or purple flowers during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon x mexicali
A group of hybrid Penstemons, reaching up to 15 inches in height.
The narrow foliage is deep green.
The flowers are borne late summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun. Moderately drought tolerant.
* photo taken on Sep 29 2013 in Ellicott City, MD
Pikes Peak Purple
A fast growing and compact perennial, reaching up to 15 inches x 1 foot. The narrow lance-shaped, evergreen leaves are deep green. The showy violet-purple flowers are borne all summer long. Hardy zones 4b to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is very heat, drought and humidity tolerant, even thriving in the southeast.
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Penstemon Red Rocks
A form of P. campanulatus. Reaches up to 1.5 x 2.5 feet with glossy bright green, narrow foliage and reddish-pink flowers late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is more moisture tolerant than many Penstemons but is also drought tolerant.
* photo taken on May 21 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Penstemon newberryi
A shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1 foot x 32 inches, with toothed, oval leaves and profuse, deep red flowers during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon nitidus ( Shining Penstemon )
A rosette forming perennial, reaching up to 10 x 10 inches, that is native to the Canadian Prairie Provinces.
The foliage is fleshy.
The purple, lavender or blue flowers are borne during early spring.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun. Drought tolerant.
Penstemon ovatus ( Broad-Leaved Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 4 x 2 feet, that is native to the Pacific Northwest.
The broad leaves are up to 6 inches in length.
The lavender-blue to purple flowers, up to 0.8 inches in length, are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Albus
White flowers.
Penstemon palmeri
A perennial, reaching up to 7 x 2 ( rarely over 5 ) feet, that is native to Arizona and New Mexico.
The attractive foliage is gray.
The large, pale-pink flowers are borne in huge spikes during late spring into early summer. This is among the very few fragrant Penstemon.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on rocky or sandy, well drained soil. Requires average annual precip of under 18 inches making it suitable only in the western U.S.
Penstemon parryi
A perennial, reaching up to 4.5 x 2 feet, that is native to southern Arizona.
The leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are blue-green.
The showy, deep rose-pink flowers are borne mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 8 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil.
Penstemon pinifolius ( Pineleaf Beardtongue )
A moderate growing, compact, low, evergreen shrub reaching up to 2 x 2 feet, that is native to Arizona, New Mexico and neighboring northern Mexico.
The very narrow, needle-like leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The profuse, bright-red, tubular flowers are borne on spikes.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Heat and extremely drought tolerant.
Compactum
A miniature form, reaching up to 10 inches x 1 foot, very profusely bearing intense scarlet-red flowers during late spring but many weeks before regular Penstemon pinifolius.
Mercea Yellow
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 1 foot x 15 inches, with very profuse, yellow flowers borne over a long season during mid summer.
Nearly Red
Reaches up to 1.5 x 1 foot, with red, long, tubular flowers.
Tall Orange Mix
A mix sold by High Country Gardens that includes a mix of very profuse, intense orange and scarlet flowers.
Penstemon procumbens
A low creeping, groundcover perennial reaching only 2 inches in height.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Claude Barr
Pink flowers borne all summer long.
Penstemon procerus ( Small Flowered Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 16 x 16 inches, that is native to northwest North America.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are deep green.
The purplish-pink to lavender-blue ( with white center ) flowers are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
var formosus
A low alpine form that makes a great rock garden plant. It reaches only 2 inches in height and bears lavender flowers during summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 7.
Penstemon pseudospectabilis Coconino ( Canyon Penstemon )
Reaches up to 3 x 2 feet, with evergreen foliage that forms a showy mound. It is native to the Arizona and southern New Mexico ( Coconino specifically from Coconino Co., Arizona ).
The very profuse, spectacular, intense deep-pink, tubular flowers are borne on spikes over a month during late spring. In some climates, it may bloom for most of the year.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 on poor, well drained soils. Very drought tolerant, it thrives on hot dry sites.
Penstemon richardsonii
A brittle-stemmed, woody based perennial, reaching up to 3 feet in height, that is native to dry rocky areas from southern British Columbia to Oregon.
The deeply double-toothed, ovate leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The flowers are rose-pink.
Hardy zones 6 to 8 ( not in humid east )
Penstemon rostriflorus ( Bridges Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 1.5 feet, that is native to high mountains of eastern California, Nevada and Utah. The very profuse, intense orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers are borne during mid summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 on well drained soil, preferring dry climates with cool summer nights.
Penstemon rupicola
A low, mat-forming shrubby perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 1.5 feet, that is native from Washington State to northern California.
The small, leathery leaves are up to 1 inch in length.
The deep purplish-pink flowers are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( not in humid east ).
Penstemon scouleri
A dense, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet, that is native from British Columbia to Idaho.
The leathery, oval leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are deep green.
The purple flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are borne early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid east )
Penstemon smallii ( Smalls Beard Tongue )
A moderately long lived, bushy perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to woodlands of Tennessee and the Carolinas.
The pinkish-purple flowers, up to 1 inch, are borne during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained or sandy soil. Very drought tolerant.
Penstemon strictus ( Porch Penstemon )
A long lived, clumping, evergreen perenial reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 3.3 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, that is native to mountains in the western U.S. from Utah to Wyoming; south to Arizona to New Mexico.
The long, narrow, oval leaves, up to 4 inches in length, form a dense mat.
The glossy deep green foliage turns purplish during winter.
The deep blue-purple flowers, up to 1 inch in length, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( not in humid east ) in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant and easy to grow. Allow some seed to form to sustain the plant however allowing too much seed to form may shorten its life expectancy.
Bandera
Intense deep purplish-blue flowers up to 2 inches in length, otherwise similar to species.
Penstemon superbus
Forms a foliage clump, up to 2 x 2 feet, and reaches up to 6 feet in height while in bloom.
Penstemon tenuis ( Gulf Coast Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 4 x 3 feet, that is native from Texas to Arkansas; south to Louisiana.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in full sun; it is soil tolerant, thriving on both well drained or swampy soil.
Penstemon virens ( Blue Mist Beardtongue )
A dwarf perennial, reaching up to 8 x 10 inches, that is native to forested hills of eastern Colorado and Wyoming.
The deep green foliage forms evergreen rosettes.
The blue ( with lavender throat ) flowers are borne on spikes during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
Penstemon whippleanus
A very long-lived, evergeen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 feet x 15 inches, that is native to alpine meadows and open high montane forests in the western U.S. ( Montana to northern Arizona and New Mexico ).
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The purple-blue flowers are borne early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( tolerating -40 F ) in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon Hybrids
Hardy zones 7 to 9 with a preferance for hot summers. In England or other cool summer climates, they are often used in massed bedding but are best treated as annuals though it can be attempted to bring them through the winter with mulching.
Most cultivars listed below flower from early summer to mid autumn and all prefer full sun and well drained soil. The Penstemons are excellent for use in planters.
Penstemon Bev Jensen
Upright and dense, reaching up to 3 feet, with broad, mid-green leaves and large, showy, rich rose--purple flowers with deep red throat streaking.
Penstemon Blackbird
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with broad mid-green leaves and deep red-purple flowers on red-purple stems.
Penstemon Blue Lips
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 10 inches x 1.5 feet. This is an introduction from the outstanding nursery High Country Nursery.
The needle-like leaves are blue-gray.
The profuse, showy, lavender ( bright blue lipped ) flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 on well drained soil. Rabbit resistant.
Penstemon Dark Towers
A very attractive, fast growing perennial, reaching up to 3 x 4 feet. This hybrid was developed by the University of Nebraska.
The foliage resembles that of P. digitalis Huskers Red but is very glossy and very deep purplish-red, holding its color all summer long. This perennial combines especially well with the white Shasta Daisies.
The lavender-pink flowers, up to 1.5 inches across, are borne during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8.
Penstemon Elizabeth Cozzens
Reaches up to 2.5 x 3 feet, with short, lance, mid-green leaves and lilac-pink ( with purplish-pink ) throat striping.
Penstemon Enor
Tight and upright in habit, with glossy mid-green leaves.
The flowers are purple-red to mid-purple.
Penstemon Garnet
Floppy in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, with glossy mid-green leaves and intense deep-red flowers.
Prone to some leafspot.
Penstemon Ghent Purple
Compact and mounding, reaching up to 1.5 feet.
The serrated narrow leaves are bright green.
The purple flowers have a speckled white throat.
Disease resistant.
Penstemon Hollys White
Reaches up to 1.5 feet with mid-green leaves and white flowers.
Penstemon Joy
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with broad, bright green leaves.
The flowers are rich salmon-red with a white throat.
Penstemon King George
Reaches up to 3 feet with salmon-red flowers that have a white throat.
Penstemon Midnight
Also called Midnight Blue. Upright in habit, reaching up to 2.5 x 3 feet, with narrow, recurved, deep-green foliage and deep purple-blue flowers.
Penstemon Mother of Pearl
Reaches up to 3.5 x 3 feet, with deep green foliage and small, purplish-pink flowers with red lines and a white throat.
Penstemon Pink Chablis
Dense and compact, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet, with neat glossy rosettes of foliage and profuse mid-pink flowers that repeat bloom if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 3 to 8
Penstemon Pink Endurance
Reaches up to 2 x 1.5 feet, forming a rosette of mid-green leaves topped by
profuse, small, clear-pink, tubular flowers from mid summer to late autumn.
Hardy zones 6 to 8
Penstemon Purple Passion
Reaches up to 3 feet, with intense, violet-purple, bell-shaped flowers.
Penstemon Raven
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with mid-green leaves and large, deep red-purple ( white throat ) flowers.
Penstemon Razzle Dazzle
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with narrow, bright green leaves and hot-red flowers.
Penstemon Rich Ruby
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet with bright green leaves and large, deep red to purplish-red flowers with light stamens.
Penstemon Ruby
Bushy in habit, reaching up to 3 x 2 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, with intense deep red, tubular flowers during late spring, repeating late summer to mid-autumn if cut back after the first flush. the leaves are narrow.
Penstemon Snowstorm
Reaches up to 20 inches with pure white, bell-shaped flowers.
Penstemon Sour Grapes ( Gloxinia Penstemon )
Reaches up to 3 x 2.5 ( rarely over 2.5 ) feet, with rich mid-purple, large flowers from early summer to mid-autumn. The large leaves are deep green.
Tolerates as low as -40 F.
Penstemon Suttons Pink Peddler
Compact in habit, reaching up to 3 feet, with glossy bright-green leaves and clear pink flowers with a white throat.
Penstemon Sweet Grapes
Compact and heavy flowering, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet. This hybrid has neat glossy rosettes of foliage and purple flowers that rebloom if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun. Tolerant of poor clay soil.
Read More..
All prefer full sun on well drained soil ( most do NOT like clay ) with either stone mulch or no mulch at all. Most species should not be fertilized too heavily since too much can shorten the life of the plant. It is important to NOT plant too deep as this can smother the crown. Only a few species of Penstemons native to the eastern U.S. are tolerant of hot humid summers, the remainder preferring climates such as the Great Plains and Rockies with dry heat and cool summer nights. Most Penstemons are very drought tolerant. It is recommended to cut back plants in very early spring before new growth begins. Be careful not to cut too far back on shrubby or evergreen varieties. Some species will rebloom if old flowerstalks are removed.
Many Penstemons can be pinched during late spring when they are a foot tall to encourage a more bushy habit.
All Penstemons also attract hummingbirds and are mostly rabbit and deer resistant.
Propagation is usually from division or softwood cuttings taken during spring. When growing from seed, place seed in containers with very light, well drained soil mix then sprinkle barely enough sand on top to cover them. Set outside in protected location and let natural freeze/thaw occur over winter to break dormancy. Keep the soil mix just damp over the winter...too much moisture will rot the seeds.
Excellent external link on Penstemons... http://www.wildgingerfarm.com/Penstemon.htm
* photo of unknown internet source
Penstemon alamosensis ( Alamo Canyon Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 1 feet, that is a rare native to the southwestern U.S.
The gray foliage is borne from dense, compact rosettes.
The bright orangish-coral flowers are borne on tall spikes.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on alkaline, light, very well drained soil. Very drought tolerant.
Penstemon albertinus
A perennial, reaching up to 16 inches in height, that is native to Alberta, Canada.
Its main attraction is spires of deep blue flowers.
Hardy zones 3 ot 6 in partial shade.
Penstemon alpinus
A clump-forming perennial, reaching up to 2.5 feet x 8+ inches ( usually under 1.5 feet ), that is native to the Rocky Mountains.
The broad leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The violet-red to blue ( with white throat ) flowers are borne during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon angustifolius ( Pagoda Penstemon )
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 1 foot in height, bearing bright blue flowers all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Great for containers.
Penstemon baccharifolius
An evergreen, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 2 x 3 feet.
The rose-red flowers are borne during spring and summer.
Hard7 zones 6 to 9 in full sun on very well drained soil. Tolerant of drought and alkaline soil.
Penstemon barbatus ( Coral Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 4 ( rarely over 4 ) feet, that is native to Utah, Colorado and New Mexico.
The narrow, lance-shaped, leathery, mid-green leaves, up to 8 inches in length forms a low, evergreen mound.
The rose-red, bearded-lipped, trumpet-shaped flowers, up to 1.6 inches in length, are borne on spikes from mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil, heat tolerant and moderately drought tolerant.
Blue Riding Hood
* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
Coccineus
Similar to species except for intense scarlet-red flowers.
Hardy zones 2 to 9, tolerating as low as -50 F.
Elfin Pink
Reaches up to 3 x 1.5 ( rarely over 1 ) feet, with attractive evergreen foliage and mid-pink flowers borne on dense long spikes.
Hyacinth Mix
Very hardy, compact, seed strain, reaching up to 1 foot, with flowers that can come in either pink, scarlet-red or blue.
Praecox Nanus Rondo
Reaches up to 1.5 x 3 feet, with scarlet-red, bell-shaped flowers borne early summer into early autumn.
* photos taken on June 16 2012 in Columbia, MD
Pinacolada Dark Rose
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 inches x 1 foot. The profuse bright rosy-pink flowers are borne during early summer.
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Pinacolada Violet
Dense and compact in habit, reaching up to 1 x 1.5 feet. The profuse violet-blue flowers are borne on panicles during early to mid summer, often repeat blooming into early autumn if deadheaded.
* photos taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Prairie Dusk
Intense purple flowers borne all summer long on sturdy stems, up to 2 feet high. Looks great with yellow flowering plants.
Red Riding Hood
A cultivar originating from the Netherlands, reaching up to 32 inches x 2 feet. The profuse, very large, white-lipped, intense bright-red flowers are borne late spring and all summer long. Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun. It is drought tolerant but also tolerates more humid conditions in the eastern U.S.
* photos taken on May 2012 in Columbia, MD
Rondo
* photos taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
Schooleys Coral
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 1.5 feet x 15 inches, with flowers that are yellow in bud, turning to pink, then finally to coral-pink when fully open.
The very profuse flowers are borne over a long season.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Penstemon cardinalis ( Cardinal Penstemon )
A moderate growing, upright perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 2 feet, that is a rare native to Pinyon-Juniper woodlands in the mountains of central New Mexico and far western Texas.
The elliptical leaves are up to 5 inches in length.
The intense scarlet-red flowers, up to 1.3 inches long, are borne on spikes during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on moist, well drained soil. It is very heat tolerant and can also tolerate the occasional drought once established.
Penstemon caespidata ( Mat Penstemon )
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Claude Barr
A mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 6 inches high, with bright purple flowers.
Penstemon campanulatus
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1 foot, that is native to the mountains of Mexico and Guatemala.
The toothed, lance-shaped leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The deep pink to purple flowers are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 9 to 10 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon canescens ( Eastern Gray Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to dry woods in eastern North America ( from Ontario to Pennsylvania; south to Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina ).
The saw-toothed, broad lance-shaped leaves, up to 6 inches in length, form a basal rosette. The foliage is deep green.
The pale-pink flowers, up to 2 inches, are borne on open panicles during late spring into early summer.
The downy stems are ashy-gray.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on light, well drained soil.
Propagation is typically from division during autumn or early spring.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
Penstemon clutei
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1.5 feet, bearing deep pink flowers.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soils. It will not survive in the humid east.
Penstemon cobaea Purpurea ( Foxglove Penstemon )
A rare, spectacular perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 1.5 feet, that is native to southern Missouri in the Ozarks. Short lived, often lasting only 4 years.
The large, glossy deep-green leaves form rosettes.
The large, lavender-purple flowers are borne on spikes during early summer lasting up to a month.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Easy to grow, tolerant of drought and poor soil. It is also tolerant of moist humid conditions in the eastern U.S.
Penstemon confertus
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1 feet, with lance-shaped leaves up to 2 inches in length and yellow flowers, up to 0.8 inches in length during summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9
Penstemon cristatus
A bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 1 foot.
The leaves are oval. The red-purple flowers are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon cyananthus ( Wasatch Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 feet in height, that is native from Idaho to Wyoming; south to Utah.
The bright blue flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Penstemon davidsonii
A mat-forming, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 2 feet, is native to the western U.S.
The elliptical leaves, up to 0.8 inches in length, are gray-green. The rich pink to deep-red flowers are borne on short inflorescences during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. ) in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon digitalis ( Foxglove Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to damp woods of eastern North America, from Michigan to Maine, south to Texas to Alabama.
The evergreen basal leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are blue-green.
The nodding, white to very pale purplish-pink, tubular flowers are borne on narrow spikes during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Very easy to grow, it thrives in just about any soil, including clay, that isnt extremely dry or boggy. Deer resistant.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 14 2013 in Columbia, MD
Dark Towers
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Husker Red
Similar except with deep red, later turning bronze-purple foliage contrasting well with white to very pale-pink flowers during early to mid summer.
The stems are also deep purple.
Great for mass plantings.
Many nurseries sell plants that do not have good color, these have often been grown from seed rather than cuttings.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photo of unknown internet source
* photo takens on Mar 7 2013 in Columbia, MD
Precious Gem
Reaches up to 3 feet, with attractive bronze foliage that contrasts well with pink flowers borne on showy spikes during early to mid summer.
Rachels Dance
Reaches up to 20 inches, with bright purplish-red leaves borne on deep red-brown stems. The foliage retains its color all season and contrasts well with the white to very pale pink flowers.
Penstemon eatonii ( Firecracker Penstemon )
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 4.3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet in height, that is native to the southwest U.S. incl. California.
The leaves are large and leathery.
The flowers are scarlet-red and are great for attracting hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Penstemon fruticosus ( Shrubby Penstemon )
A shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 feet x 20 inches, that is native to British Columbias arid interior; south to Oregon to Wyoming.
The leathery, evergreen foliage forms a bushy low mound. When mass planted, it can make a great groundcover.
The smooth-edged to lightly toothed, lance-shaped leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are green, turning to bronze during winter.
The very profuse, lavender-purple flowers, up to 1.6 inches, are borne during late spring into early summer. The flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 on very well drained soil. Very tolerant of drought, it does not like heavy, wet clay or over frequent irrigation.
Catherine de la Mare
lilac-blue flowers.
Purple Haze
Reaches up to 1.5 x 2 feet, with spectacular lilac-purple flowers.
Great for edging, rock gardens and cascading over landscape walls.
Penstemon gracilis
A long lived perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1.5 feet, that is native to North America, from British Columbia to Ontario, south to New Mexico to Wisconsin.
The leaves are up to 4.5 inches in length.
The white to soft lilac ( with yellow beard ), bell-shaped flowers are borne on thin stems from mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon grandiflorus ( Shell-Leaf Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 feet x 20 inches, that is native to central North America ( from Wyoming to North Dakota to Illinois; south to Texas ). It is endangered in the wild.
The attractive, leathery, rounded leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are blue-green.
The lavender flowers, up to 2 inches, are borne late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun. Tolerant of heat and drought.
Propagation is easy from seed and it often self sows.
Prairie Snow
Profuse white flowers.
Penstemon hartwegii
A bushy perennial, reaching up to 4 feet x 16 inches, that is native to Mexico.
The leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are rich-green.
The flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are bright scarlet-red.
Hardy zones 8 to 10
Penstemon haydenii
Among the rarest of all Penstemons. Full text description coming soon.
* photo of unknown internet source
Penstemon heterophyllus ( Foothill Penstemon )
A shubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 5 ( rarely over 2 x 3 ) feet,
that is native to California.
The narrow leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are glossy, deep blue-green.
The pinkish-blue to bright blue flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. ) in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Very drought tolerant.
Blue Bedder
Compact in habit, with flowers that are bright blue. In mild climates such as California, it may bloom up to 8 months of the year if deadheaded.
Heavenly Blue
Blue flowers.
var purdyi
Reaches up to 2 feet in height, and is native to California.
The attractive foliage is deep green.
The rich blue flowers are borne from spring into summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 10 in full sun in climates with 30 + inches of yearly rainfall. Cut back after first flush of blooms to encourage rebloom.
Penstemon hirsutus
A long lived ( 10 + years ), rapid spreading, clumping perennial, reaching up to 4 x 2 feet, that is native to dry sandy woods in eastern North America from Wisconsin to Quebec and Maine; south to Kentucky to Virginia.
The sharply-toothed, lance-shaped leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are green above, downy beneath. The bases of the upper leaves join around the stems. The green foliage turns to bronze during winter.
The violet flowers, up to an inch in width, are borne on a leafless inflorescence during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant. Tolerates hot, humid summers.
Pygmaeus
Reaches up to 6 x 10 inches with violet flowers borne all summer long.
Makes an excellent groundcover, even tolerating dry shade.
Penstemon linarioides ssp. coloradoensis
A tiny, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 1.5 x 2 feet, with green, needle-like leaves. The profuse flowers are purple.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon menziesii
A shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet, with toothed, oblong leaves and violet-blue or purple flowers during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon x mexicali
A group of hybrid Penstemons, reaching up to 15 inches in height.
The narrow foliage is deep green.
The flowers are borne late summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun. Moderately drought tolerant.
* photo taken on Sep 29 2013 in Ellicott City, MD
Pikes Peak Purple
A fast growing and compact perennial, reaching up to 15 inches x 1 foot. The narrow lance-shaped, evergreen leaves are deep green. The showy violet-purple flowers are borne all summer long. Hardy zones 4b to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is very heat, drought and humidity tolerant, even thriving in the southeast.
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Penstemon Red Rocks
A form of P. campanulatus. Reaches up to 1.5 x 2.5 feet with glossy bright green, narrow foliage and reddish-pink flowers late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is more moisture tolerant than many Penstemons but is also drought tolerant.
* photo taken on May 21 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
Penstemon newberryi
A shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1 foot x 32 inches, with toothed, oval leaves and profuse, deep red flowers during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon nitidus ( Shining Penstemon )
A rosette forming perennial, reaching up to 10 x 10 inches, that is native to the Canadian Prairie Provinces.
The foliage is fleshy.
The purple, lavender or blue flowers are borne during early spring.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun. Drought tolerant.
Penstemon ovatus ( Broad-Leaved Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 4 x 2 feet, that is native to the Pacific Northwest.
The broad leaves are up to 6 inches in length.
The lavender-blue to purple flowers, up to 0.8 inches in length, are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Albus
White flowers.
Penstemon palmeri
A perennial, reaching up to 7 x 2 ( rarely over 5 ) feet, that is native to Arizona and New Mexico.
The attractive foliage is gray.
The large, pale-pink flowers are borne in huge spikes during late spring into early summer. This is among the very few fragrant Penstemon.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on rocky or sandy, well drained soil. Requires average annual precip of under 18 inches making it suitable only in the western U.S.
Penstemon parryi
A perennial, reaching up to 4.5 x 2 feet, that is native to southern Arizona.
The leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are blue-green.
The showy, deep rose-pink flowers are borne mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 8 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil.
Penstemon pinifolius ( Pineleaf Beardtongue )
A moderate growing, compact, low, evergreen shrub reaching up to 2 x 2 feet, that is native to Arizona, New Mexico and neighboring northern Mexico.
The very narrow, needle-like leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The profuse, bright-red, tubular flowers are borne on spikes.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Heat and extremely drought tolerant.
Compactum
A miniature form, reaching up to 10 inches x 1 foot, very profusely bearing intense scarlet-red flowers during late spring but many weeks before regular Penstemon pinifolius.
Mercea Yellow
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 1 foot x 15 inches, with very profuse, yellow flowers borne over a long season during mid summer.
Nearly Red
Reaches up to 1.5 x 1 foot, with red, long, tubular flowers.
Tall Orange Mix
A mix sold by High Country Gardens that includes a mix of very profuse, intense orange and scarlet flowers.
Penstemon procumbens
A low creeping, groundcover perennial reaching only 2 inches in height.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Claude Barr
Pink flowers borne all summer long.
Penstemon procerus ( Small Flowered Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 16 x 16 inches, that is native to northwest North America.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are deep green.
The purplish-pink to lavender-blue ( with white center ) flowers are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
var formosus
A low alpine form that makes a great rock garden plant. It reaches only 2 inches in height and bears lavender flowers during summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 7.
Penstemon pseudospectabilis Coconino ( Canyon Penstemon )
Reaches up to 3 x 2 feet, with evergreen foliage that forms a showy mound. It is native to the Arizona and southern New Mexico ( Coconino specifically from Coconino Co., Arizona ).
The very profuse, spectacular, intense deep-pink, tubular flowers are borne on spikes over a month during late spring. In some climates, it may bloom for most of the year.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 on poor, well drained soils. Very drought tolerant, it thrives on hot dry sites.
Penstemon richardsonii
A brittle-stemmed, woody based perennial, reaching up to 3 feet in height, that is native to dry rocky areas from southern British Columbia to Oregon.
The deeply double-toothed, ovate leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The flowers are rose-pink.
Hardy zones 6 to 8 ( not in humid east )
Penstemon rostriflorus ( Bridges Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 1.5 feet, that is native to high mountains of eastern California, Nevada and Utah. The very profuse, intense orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers are borne during mid summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 on well drained soil, preferring dry climates with cool summer nights.
Penstemon rupicola
A low, mat-forming shrubby perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 1.5 feet, that is native from Washington State to northern California.
The small, leathery leaves are up to 1 inch in length.
The deep purplish-pink flowers are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( not in humid east ).
Penstemon scouleri
A dense, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet, that is native from British Columbia to Idaho.
The leathery, oval leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are deep green.
The purple flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are borne early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid east )
Penstemon smallii ( Smalls Beard Tongue )
A moderately long lived, bushy perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to woodlands of Tennessee and the Carolinas.
The pinkish-purple flowers, up to 1 inch, are borne during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained or sandy soil. Very drought tolerant.
Penstemon strictus ( Porch Penstemon )
A long lived, clumping, evergreen perenial reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 3.3 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, that is native to mountains in the western U.S. from Utah to Wyoming; south to Arizona to New Mexico.
The long, narrow, oval leaves, up to 4 inches in length, form a dense mat.
The glossy deep green foliage turns purplish during winter.
The deep blue-purple flowers, up to 1 inch in length, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( not in humid east ) in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant and easy to grow. Allow some seed to form to sustain the plant however allowing too much seed to form may shorten its life expectancy.
Bandera
Intense deep purplish-blue flowers up to 2 inches in length, otherwise similar to species.
Penstemon superbus
Forms a foliage clump, up to 2 x 2 feet, and reaches up to 6 feet in height while in bloom.
Penstemon tenuis ( Gulf Coast Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 4 x 3 feet, that is native from Texas to Arkansas; south to Louisiana.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in full sun; it is soil tolerant, thriving on both well drained or swampy soil.
Penstemon virens ( Blue Mist Beardtongue )
A dwarf perennial, reaching up to 8 x 10 inches, that is native to forested hills of eastern Colorado and Wyoming.
The deep green foliage forms evergreen rosettes.
The blue ( with lavender throat ) flowers are borne on spikes during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
Penstemon whippleanus
A very long-lived, evergeen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 feet x 15 inches, that is native to alpine meadows and open high montane forests in the western U.S. ( Montana to northern Arizona and New Mexico ).
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The purple-blue flowers are borne early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( tolerating -40 F ) in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon Hybrids
Hardy zones 7 to 9 with a preferance for hot summers. In England or other cool summer climates, they are often used in massed bedding but are best treated as annuals though it can be attempted to bring them through the winter with mulching.
Most cultivars listed below flower from early summer to mid autumn and all prefer full sun and well drained soil. The Penstemons are excellent for use in planters.
Penstemon Bev Jensen
Upright and dense, reaching up to 3 feet, with broad, mid-green leaves and large, showy, rich rose--purple flowers with deep red throat streaking.
Penstemon Blackbird
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with broad mid-green leaves and deep red-purple flowers on red-purple stems.
Penstemon Blue Lips
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 10 inches x 1.5 feet. This is an introduction from the outstanding nursery High Country Nursery.
The needle-like leaves are blue-gray.
The profuse, showy, lavender ( bright blue lipped ) flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 on well drained soil. Rabbit resistant.
Penstemon Dark Towers
A very attractive, fast growing perennial, reaching up to 3 x 4 feet. This hybrid was developed by the University of Nebraska.
The foliage resembles that of P. digitalis Huskers Red but is very glossy and very deep purplish-red, holding its color all summer long. This perennial combines especially well with the white Shasta Daisies.
The lavender-pink flowers, up to 1.5 inches across, are borne during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8.
Penstemon Elizabeth Cozzens
Reaches up to 2.5 x 3 feet, with short, lance, mid-green leaves and lilac-pink ( with purplish-pink ) throat striping.
Penstemon Enor
Tight and upright in habit, with glossy mid-green leaves.
The flowers are purple-red to mid-purple.
Penstemon Garnet
Floppy in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, with glossy mid-green leaves and intense deep-red flowers.
Prone to some leafspot.
Penstemon Ghent Purple
Compact and mounding, reaching up to 1.5 feet.
The serrated narrow leaves are bright green.
The purple flowers have a speckled white throat.
Disease resistant.
Penstemon Hollys White
Reaches up to 1.5 feet with mid-green leaves and white flowers.
Penstemon Joy
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with broad, bright green leaves.
The flowers are rich salmon-red with a white throat.
Penstemon King George
Reaches up to 3 feet with salmon-red flowers that have a white throat.
Penstemon Midnight
Also called Midnight Blue. Upright in habit, reaching up to 2.5 x 3 feet, with narrow, recurved, deep-green foliage and deep purple-blue flowers.
Penstemon Mother of Pearl
Reaches up to 3.5 x 3 feet, with deep green foliage and small, purplish-pink flowers with red lines and a white throat.
Penstemon Pink Chablis
Dense and compact, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet, with neat glossy rosettes of foliage and profuse mid-pink flowers that repeat bloom if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 3 to 8
Penstemon Pink Endurance
Reaches up to 2 x 1.5 feet, forming a rosette of mid-green leaves topped by
profuse, small, clear-pink, tubular flowers from mid summer to late autumn.
Hardy zones 6 to 8
Penstemon Purple Passion
Reaches up to 3 feet, with intense, violet-purple, bell-shaped flowers.
Penstemon Raven
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with mid-green leaves and large, deep red-purple ( white throat ) flowers.
Penstemon Razzle Dazzle
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with narrow, bright green leaves and hot-red flowers.
Penstemon Rich Ruby
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet with bright green leaves and large, deep red to purplish-red flowers with light stamens.
Penstemon Ruby
Bushy in habit, reaching up to 3 x 2 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, with intense deep red, tubular flowers during late spring, repeating late summer to mid-autumn if cut back after the first flush. the leaves are narrow.
Penstemon Snowstorm
Reaches up to 20 inches with pure white, bell-shaped flowers.
Penstemon Sour Grapes ( Gloxinia Penstemon )
Reaches up to 3 x 2.5 ( rarely over 2.5 ) feet, with rich mid-purple, large flowers from early summer to mid-autumn. The large leaves are deep green.
Tolerates as low as -40 F.
Penstemon Suttons Pink Peddler
Compact in habit, reaching up to 3 feet, with glossy bright-green leaves and clear pink flowers with a white throat.
Penstemon Sweet Grapes
Compact and heavy flowering, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet. This hybrid has neat glossy rosettes of foliage and purple flowers that rebloom if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun. Tolerant of poor clay soil.
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