Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Penstemon digitalis is commonly known as foxglove beardtongue. It features tall spikes lined with tubular flowers and is known for its attractive foliage. This species is particularly valued for its drought tolerance and ability to attract hummingbirds.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain soil moisture and promote root growth.
- Transplant seedlings after the last frost to a sunny spot with loose soil.
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells to encourage deep roots.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming period.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for vibrant, healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Provide full sun exposure for optimal flowering
- Deadhead to encourage more blooms
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy, clay soil without amendments
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
- Do not neglect pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| 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
Foxglove Beardtongue questions
What zones can Foxglove Beardtongue grow in?
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 Foxglove Beardtongue deer resistant?
Yes — Foxglove Beardtongue is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Foxglove Beardtongue bloom?
Foxglove Beardtongue typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Foxglove Beardtongue need full sun?
Foxglove Beardtongue does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Foxglove Beardtongue drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Foxglove 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
Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'George Home'
Beardtongue Rondo
Penstemon barbatus 'Rondo'
Blackbeard Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis 'Blackbeard'
Dark Towers Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Dark Towers'
Red Foxglove Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Arabesque Red'
Blue Springs Penstemon
Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Springs'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Foxglove 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.
