Penstemon Apple Blossom

2-3 Litre Pot

• Position: Full sun, partial shade
• Soil: Well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: July-October
• Hardiness: H4
• Eventual Height: 0.5-1m
• Eventual Spread: 0.1-0.5m

Penstemon Apple Blossom, commonly known as ‘Beard Tongue’, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is a popular plant that is commonly grown for its lovely pink and white flowers that resemble apple blossoms. The flowers bloom in early to mid-Summer and continue to bloom well into the Autumn season, making it an excellent choice for adding colour to any garden.

The plant typically grows to a height of 1 metre and has a spread of about 1/2 metre. The leaves are dark green and have a lanceolate shape, measuring about 10cm in length. The flowers, which are the main attraction of this plant, are tubular in shape and measure about 2cm in length. They are pale pink in colour with white throats, and they are arranged in tall spikes that rise above the foliage.

Penstemon Apple Blossom is an easy-to-grow plant that prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is a frost hardy plant that may need protection in the Winter and is tolerant of drought and heat, making it an excellent choice for areas with hot Summers. It is also relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering and fertilisation.

One of the best things about Penstemon Apple Blossom is its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden. The tubular shape of the flowers is particularly attractive to these creatures, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to promote pollinator activity.

Overall, Penstemon Apple Blossom is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that adds colour and interest to any garden. Its lovely pink and white flowers, hardiness, and ability to attract pollinators make it a popular choice among gardeners of all skill levels.

How to care for your Penstemon Apple Blossom

• Soil and Sunlight: Prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. It also requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Watering: It is drought-tolerant and can withstand dry spells, but it still needs regular watering, especially during its growing season. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture.
• Fertilising: Does not require heavy feeding but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertiliser in early Spring. Too much fertiliser can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Pruning: To promote bushier growth and more flowers, pinch back the tips of the stems by one-third in early Spring. After flowering, cut back the spent flower stems to encourage a second round of blooms.
• Winter care: It is hardy down to -10˚C so will need protection in the colder months.

By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beautiful blooms of Penstemon Apple Blossom for years to come.