Species

Penstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue

12 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Stapleford Gem Beardtongue

Penstemon digitalis 'Stapleford Gem'

The Story

Plant Bio

Penstemon 'Stapleford Gem' is a semi-evergreen perennial with upright stems bearing lance-shaped, green leaves and panicles of large, tubular, lilac-blue flowers with white throats.

This popular hybrid is prized for its large, showy flowers and long blooming period. It has received the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant, tubular flowers that attract pollinators, adding color and life to gardens.

Drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering and maintenance.

Supports hummingbirds and bees, promoting local biodiversity.

SpeciesPenstemon digitalisFoxglove Beardtongue

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Short-lived perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture, avoiding overwatering.
Transplant seedlings when they are sturdy and have developed several leaves.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during active growth.
Prune to promote bushier growth and remove spent flowers to encourage rebloom.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for optimal flowering and health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
Refrain from excessive fertilizing which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower bordersDrought-tolerant rock gardensWildflower meadows

Companion Plants

SalviaLavender Coreopsis Gaillardia Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Stapleford Gem Beardtongue questions

What zones can Stapleford Gem Beardtongue grow in?

Stapleford Gem 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 Stapleford Gem Beardtongue deer resistant?

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

When does Stapleford Gem Beardtongue bloom?

Stapleford Gem Beardtongue typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Stapleford Gem Beardtongue need full sun?

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

Is Stapleford Gem Beardtongue drought tolerant?

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