The Story
Plant Bio
Penstemon digitalis 'Apple Blossom' features graceful spikes of tubular flowers that attract pollinators.
This cultivar is known for its beautiful pink-flushed white flowers that bloom profusely in late spring.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Low to moderate, drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern and Central North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly until roots develop, about 4-6 weeks.
- Transplant seedlings when they are sturdy and have several leaves.
- Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during spring and summer.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth and remove spent blooms.
Pro Tip
Use a sunny location with well-draining soil for optimal growth and flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply when the topsoil feels dry 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
- Apply a balanced fertilizer during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not plant in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil
- Refrain from cutting back too late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Apple Blossom Beardtongue questions
What zones can Apple Blossom Beardtongue grow in?
Apple Blossom 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 Apple Blossom Beardtongue deer resistant?
Yes — Apple Blossom Beardtongue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Apple Blossom Beardtongue bloom?
Apple Blossom Beardtongue typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Apple Blossom Beardtongue need full sun?
Apple Blossom Beardtongue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Apple Blossom Beardtongue drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Apple Blossom Beardtongue handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Penstemon to compare

Beardtongue Rondo
Penstemon barbatus 'Rondo'

George Home Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'George Home'

Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis

Blue Springs Penstemon
Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Springs'

Blackbeard Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard'

Dark Towers Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Dark Towers'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Apple Blossom Beardtongue with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.













