Species

Penstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue

12 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue

Penstemon digitalis 'Aurora'

The Story

Plant Bio

Penstemon digitalis 'Aurora' is a hardy perennial with attractive, tall spikes of tubular white flowers that attract pollinators.

This cultivar is known for its vigorous growth and ability to thrive in a variety of soil types.

Uses & Benefits:

Penstemon Aurora offers vibrant pink blooms that attract pollinators, enhancing garden beauty.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise gardens.

Provides nectar for hummingbirds and bees, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesPenstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

20 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern and Central North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly and keep in bright, indirect light for root development.
Water regularly but do not overwater; keep soil moist during growing season.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms outdoors.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not fertilize late in the season
Never leave soil soggy for extended periods

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful perennial borderWildflower meadow accentDrought-tolerant garden patch

Companion Plants

Salvia Echinacea Coreopsis GaillardiaLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue questions

What zones can Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue grow in?

Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue deer resistant?

Yes — Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue bloom?

Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue need full sun?

Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Aurora Foxglove Beardtongue handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.