Penstemon hirsutus aka Northeastern Beardtongue

Penstemon hirsutus, or hairy beardtongue, belongs to the plantain family. This herbaceous perennial grows in southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. Its range also reaches parts of the central United States. Wild plants grow in dry woods and rocky fields. Several upright stems rise from the same rhizome. These form a dense clump that grows fast.

Garden plants reach about 2 feet [0.6 metres] tall in Chicago. The RHS gives a height range of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. It lists a spread of 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. Fine hairs cover the upright stems, which may look reddish. Narrow green leaves grow in pairs along them without stalks. The leaves feel soft and have a lance-shaped outline. They may turn red or burgundy in fall before dropping.

Loose flower clusters rise above the leaves in late spring. Chicago records blooms in May and June; NC State extends flowering into July. The RHS reports a longer season, from spring into fall. Flowers range from lavender and violet to lavender pink. White throats and pale lips mark their slender tubes. The curved lower lip leaves the flower mouth almost shut. A tufted sterile stamen gives beardtongue its common name. Small capsules follow the flowers. Bumblebees visit for nectar, and other insects use the plant. These include wasps, butterflies, skippers, and moths. Chicago also lists bird interest and resistance to deer.

Give this plant sun or part shade and well-drained soil. NC State favours lean, dry ground, including shallow rocky sites. The RHS also accepts fertile soil, with chalk, loam, or sand. It tolerates acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Chicago recommends moderate moisture, while NC State notes tolerance of dry spells. Hardiness reports differ: Chicago lists USDA zones 4–7; NC State lists 3–9. The RHS rates it H4 for UK conditions. It recommends dry winter mulch in cold places.

Use hairy beardtongue in borders, meadows, rock gardens, or pots. Its flowers also suit gardens grown to support wildlife. It seeds itself but does not spread with force. NC State reports low upkeep and no major pest problems. The RHS notes possible slugs, snails, aphids, and leaf or bud eelworms. Powdery mildew and grey mould may also occur. Remove spent blooms to help extend the flower season. Divide plants in spring, or take cuttings in summer.