Beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis) is an attractive native perennial that offers a long season of bright white blooms. Its upright form and crisp white flowers set against glossy dark green foliage create beautiful contrast and structure in the garden!

Blooming from late May through early July, densely packed tubular flowers line the tops of sturdy, erect stems. Beardtongue performs best in full sun to part sun with average to moist, well-drained soil, and once established, it is notably tolerant of drought.

During its extended bloom time, the flowers attract butterflies, hummingbird moths, and hummingbirds. Penstemon digitalis is especially valuable to native bees, including bumblebees, leaf-cutter bees, and miner bees, which can often be seen wiggling their way inside the large tubular flowers! As the season progresses, the stems take on a rich maroon hue and the seedheads persist through winter, adding lasting structure and seasonal interest to the garden.