The penstemon plant genus belongs to the plantain family and includes more than 250 different species. Some species are annual, others are perennial. The growth habit also sometimes differs considerably. However, all species of penstemon come from North America.
What are the best care tips for beard thread?
In order to optimally care for the penstemon, it should be planted in a sunny, warm location. Water moderately and fertilize in spring. Cut back withered flowers and ensure adequate winter protection in winter.
Planting the penstemon
The penstemon likes it sunny and warm. It can definitely be planted in full sun and is also ideal for rock gardens. The soil should be nutrient-rich for tall-growing varieties. You can easily enrich it with well-rotted compost or other organic fertilizer. The low varieties also tolerate poor or sandy soil.
Watering and fertilizing
Water the penstemon only moderately; tall-growing and lushly flowering varieties should be watered a little more if necessary. The penstemon actually only needs fertilizer in spring when planting. However, if your garden soil is very poor and you have planted a tall, flowering variety, then occasionally add some liquid fertilizer (€12.00 on Amazon) to the irrigation water.
The heyday of the penstemon
Most species of penstemon bloom in summer, from around June to September, but some species also bloom until October. By regularly cutting back spent flowers, you can extend the flowering period of your plants. Many varieties are ideal as cut flowers.
Propagate the beard
The non-toxic penstemon can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. You can sow the seeds directly outdoors in late spring. Alternatively, we recommend bringing it indoors from February onwards. It is best to cut cuttings in late summer.
The Beard in Winter
The penstemon is only partially hardy. Depending on the variety, it can tolerate frost down to around -5 °C or no frost at all. Most hybrids are not hardy. You should give other species good winter protection or overwinter them in an almost frost-free winter quarters, unless you live in a particularly mild area.
The best care tips for beard threads:
- sunny warm location
- water moderately
- fertilize in spring
- suitable as a cut flower
- only moderately hardy
Tip
Even hardy varieties of penstemon may only tolerate a little frost. Therefore, always make sure you have adequate winter protection!
