Plant Calculator
Enter the approximate length and width of the area you will be planting and click 'Calculate' to determine how many Penstemon 'Blackbeard' you will need.
Correct and successful spacing is complex and depends on project conditions. We encourage you to call us at 877-ECO-PLUG for project specific recommendations and further assistance.
Penstemon 'Blackbeard'
beardtongue
- Category: Perennial
- Patent: PPAF
- Breeder: Walters Gardens, Inc.
- Hardiness Zone: 3-8
- Height: 28-34 Inches
- Spread: 24 Inches
- Spacing: 12-24 Inches
- Bloom Color: Pink
- Foliage Color: Purple
The name of this hardy perennial is a play on words from the common name for Penstemon, beardtongue. The dark feature referenced on this plant is its incredible foliage. Dark purple flower stems hold its lilac-purple flowers with their white flaring tubes high above the low mound of deep eggplant purple leaves. Attractive dark burgundy seed pods follow the flowering performance for extended seasonal interest. ‘Blackbeard’ stays strictly upright all season long with no lodging.
Exposure
| • | Full Sun |
Soil Moisture Needs
| • | Average |
Green Infrastructure
| • | Green Roof |
Wetland Indicator Status
| • | Falcutative (FAC) |
Plug Type
| • | Horticultural Plug |
Attributes
| • | Native to North America |
| • | Drought Tolerant |
| • | Clay Tolerance |
| • | Cut Flower |
| • | Ornamental Foliage |
Propagation Type
| • | Vegetative |
Additional Information about Penstemon 'Blackbeard'
Like all of our Penstemons, this one takes the heat and humidity in stride but is also very cold hardy. It continues to provide terrific color in the landscape all season long. -Walters Gardens
Aaaarrrrgggghhhh! Named after the infamous English pirate Blackbeard, Penstemon 'Blackbeard' has the darkest of eggplant foliage with bright lilac-purple flowers rising high above and standing tall. With a long season of interest and a magnet for hummingbirds and bees, this Walters Gardens introduction is sure to cause a delightful cry of 'Shiver me timbers!'
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Penstemon 'Blackbeard'
Penstemons should be grown in full sun and very well-drained soil to avoid root rot. Soil fertility need only be average, but a light mulch in winter is recommended. Use Penstemons in the border, for naturalizing, and for cut flowers.
