Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus) is an adorable and easy-to-grow perennial that performs well in a wide range of garden conditions. With its softly downturned lavender blooms and distinctive hairy stems, it makes a charming addition to the front row of a garden bed!

Blooming from late May through July, its tubular flowers range from lavender to light pink, each accented with a pale “tongue” and held along fuzzy, upright stems. Hairy Beardtongue is highly versatile, growing in full sun to shade, but performs best in full sun to part shade with dry to moist, well-drained soil. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant.

Beyond its delicate appearance, Penstemon hirsutus plays an important ecological role, supporting a wide range of pollinators including bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds!