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Botanical name: Penstemon tenuis
A pretty variety producing spikes of violet flowers with white centers in spring, then maybe again in fall; tolerates heat, wet soils, and poor drainage; great for the garden, along walkways, or in borders.
Other names: Brazos Penstemon, Sharpsepal Beardtongue
| Hardiness zone | 6b |
|---|---|
| Flower color | violet |
| Foliage type | deciduous * |
| Plant form | upright spreading |
| Mature height | 18 inches |
| Spread | 14 inches |
| Light requirements | full sun to partial shade |
| Moisture requirements | average to wet |
| Plant origin | Texas Native |
* deciduous = loses leaves in winter
Gulf Coast Penstemon has masses of beautiful spikes of violet trumpet-shaped flowers with white centers rising above the foliage from late spring to early fall, which are most effective when planted in groupings. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its narrow leaves remain green in color throughout the season. The fruit is not ornamentally significant. The dark red stems can be quite attractive.
Gulf Coast Penstemon is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other garden plants with less refined foliage.
This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and is best cleaned up in early spring before it resumes active growth for the season. It is a good choice for attracting birds, bees and butterflies to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;
Self-Seeding
Gulf Coast Penstemon is recommended for the following landscape applications;
Mass Planting, Border Edging, General Garden Use, Container Planting
Gulf Coast Penstemon will grow to be about 18 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 14 inches. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 10 inches apart. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years.
This plant does best in full sun to partial shade. It is quite adaptable, prefering to grow in average to wet conditions, and will even tolerate some standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is native to parts of our region. It can be propagated by division.
Gulf Coast Penstemon is a fine choice for the garden, but it is also a good selection for planting in outdoor pots and containers. It is often used as a 'filler' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination, providing a mass of flowers against which the larger thriller plants stand out. Note that when growing plants in outdoor containers and baskets, they may require more frequent waterings than they would in the yard or garden.
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