Coral Penstemon

Coral Penstemon, specifically Penstemon barbatus 'Coccineus', also known as Beardtongue, is a striking perennial that is native to the southern United States and Mexico. This variety is particularly admired for its tall, upright spikes of bright coral-red flowers, which bloom prolifically from late spring to early summer, providing a vibrant splash of color to the garden. The tubular shape of the flowers is especially attractive to hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for a wildlife or pollinator garden.

Growing to about 2 to 4 feet in height and spreading 1 to 2 feet wide, Coral Penstemon forms an upright clump of lance-shaped, green leaves. Its flowers are borne on tall, slender stems that rise above the foliage, creating a dramatic visual display that can add height and color to mixed borders, perennial beds, and cottage gardens.

Adapted to full sun to partial shade, Coral Penstemon thrives in well-draining soil and is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscapes and water-wise landscaping. While it prefers a sunny location, it can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. It benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods and well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

In landscaping, Coral Penstemon is often used for its ornamental beauty and ability to attract pollinators. It can serve as a focal point in mixed borders, provide vertical interest in perennial beds, or be planted in mass for a stunning display of color. Its resistance to deer and other pests, along with its low maintenance requirements, further enhances its value in the garden.

Overall, Coral Penstemon is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant perennial that adds striking color and ecological benefits to sunny garden areas. Its adaptability to a range of growing conditions and long blooming season make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to create impactful and sustainable landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Coral Penstemon

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 1-2 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Coral Penstemon grows upright with colorful tubular flowers, typically requiring no staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session for deep watering around the roots

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Coral Penstemon is considered established after 2-3 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even water distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In the summer, increase watering to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks