Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon
Penstemon cobaea
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Penstemon cobaea, commonly known as Foxglove Penstemon, is a perennial shrub with tubular, bell-shaped flowers that are typically vibrant pink to purple, complemented by lance-shaped green foliage. It produces upright flower spikes that attract pollinators. This species is valued for its long-lasting, showy flowers and its adaptability to well-drained soils, thriving in full sun and tolerating drought conditions effectively.
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
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep moist for 2 weeks
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, after 6 weeks
- Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Neglect pruning, which may reduce flowering
- Use heavy clay soil without amendment
- Allow soil to stay soggy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon questions
What zones can Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon grow in?
Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon bloom?
Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon need full sun?
Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon 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'
Foxglove Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
Red Foxglove Penstemon
Penstemon digitalis 'Arabesque Red'
Keep exploring
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Grow Penstemon cobaea Foxglove Penstemon 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.
