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Blackbeard Penstemon

Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard'

8 reviews

Perennials

Blackbeard Penstemon

Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard'

8 reviews

Perennials
  • Quart Container
  • 1 Gallon

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Why Blackbeard Penstemon?

Blackbeard Penstemon, also known as Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard', is a stunning perennial plant prized for its dark purple foliage and vibrant purple flowers. This hardy plant attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden. With a compact growth habit, Blackbeard Penstemon is perfect for borders, containers, or mass plantings. It is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for any garden.

Related plants available in your area

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Sunlight

Blackbeard Penstemon requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering. It thrives in sunny locations with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient sunlight can lead to leggy growths and reduced flowering in this plant.

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Watering

Blackbeard Penstemon prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. It is important to ensure that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering to prevent

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Fertilizing

Blackbeard Penstemon thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It requires a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again after flowering to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Avoid over-fertilization, as thi

Blackbeard Penstemon (Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard')

The Blackbeard Penstemon, also known as Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard', is a stunning perennial plant that adds a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape. With its dark purple foliage and spikes of tubular, deep purple flowers, this plant is sure to stand out in any garden bed or border.

Blackbeard Penstemon is relatively low maintenance, requiring full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is drought tolerant once established and attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers.

This variety of penstemon typically blooms in late spring to early summer, adding a splash of color to your garden when many other plants are just starting to awaken from winter dormancy. The dark foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for the vibrant flowers, making them pop even more.

Whether planted as a focal point in a mixed border, used in a mass planting for a striking display, or grown in a container on a patio, the Blackbeard Penstemon is sure to be a standout addition to your garden.

Plant Information:

Botanical Name: Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard'
USDA Zones: 3 - 8
Water: Average to Low
Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Needs: Well-Drained
Mature Height: 2 - 3 feet
Mature Spread: 2 feet
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Pollination Info

Blackbeard Penstemon (Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard') Pollination Info:

Blackbeard Penstemon is a perennial plant that belongs to the Snapdragon family. It produces striking dark purple foliage and spikes of tubular pink flowers with purple streaks on the upper lip.

Attracting Pollinators:

Blackbeard Penstemon is known for attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to the garden. The tubular shape of the flowers makes it easier for these pollinators to access the nectar.

Pollination Process:

When a pollinator visits the flowers of the Blackbeard Penstemon to feed on the nectar, it inadvertently picks up pollen from the anthers of one flower and transfers it to the stigma of another flower. This cross-pollination process is essential for the plant's reproduction.

Benefits of Pollination:

Effective pollination results in the production of seeds that can develop into new plants. Pollination also helps in genetic diversity and overall health of the plant population.

Encouraging Pollination:

To encourage pollination in your garden, plant Blackbeard Penstemon in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Avoid using pesticides that can harm pollinators and provide a water source for them to stay hydrated.

FAQ

Blackbeard Penstemon (Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard') FAQ

1. What are the characteristics of Blackbeard Penstemon?

Blackbeard Penstemon is a perennial plant known for its dark purple foliage and vibrant purple flowers. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet and blooms in late spring to early summer.

2. How should Blackbeard Penstemon be planted?

Blackbeard Penstemon thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is best to plant them in the spring after the last frost. Make sure to space the plants at least 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.

3. How often should Blackbeard Penstemon be watered?

Blackbeard Penstemon prefers regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

4. How should Blackbeard Penstemon be pruned?

Prune Blackbeard Penstemon in late fall or early spring to remove any dead or damaged foliage. Cut back the stems to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. Deadhead the flowers to promote continuous blooming.

5. Does Blackbeard Penstemon attract pollinators?

Yes, Blackbeard Penstemon is known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its bright flowers. It is a great addition to pollinator gardens and can help support local wildlife populations.

6. Is Blackbeard Penstemon susceptible to any pests or diseases?

Blackbeard Penstemon is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Proper watering and good air circulation can help prevent this issue.

7. How can I propagate Blackbeard Penstemon?

Blackbeard Penstemon can be propagated by division in the spring. Simply dig up the plant and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure each division has some stems and foliage attached. Replant the divisions and water thoroughly.

Planting & Care

Planting & Care for Blackbeard Penstemon

Planting:

  • Choose a location with full sun to part shade. Blackbeard Penstemon prefers well-draining soil.
  • Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and mix in some compost for added nutrients.
  • Plant the Blackbeard Penstemon at the same depth it was in the nursery pot and water thoroughly.
  • Space multiple plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.

Care:

  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
  • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.
  • Prune back in late winter or early spring to promote new growth and shape the plant.
  • Monitor for pests and diseases, and treat promptly if necessary.

Check Out These Verified Customer Reviews:

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5 based on 8 reviews

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Earl Q.

The plant arrived in great condition, very well-packaged and without any damage.

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Nate R.

Impressed with the quality of the Blackbeard Penstemon, it's thriving in my garden.

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Claudette G.

Beautiful plant, great quality, would definitely recommend to others.

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