100 Calico Beardtongue Seeds Penstemon calycosus Wildflower Pollinator Garden
Calico Beardtongue is a native perennial wildflower known for its graceful spikes of soft lavender to pale pink tubular blooms that open gradually from late spring into early summer. Penstemon calycosus brings a light, airy texture to naturalistic plantings, meadow gardens, and cottage borders, and its upright stems and tidy clumping habit make it a dependable choice for gardeners seeking a long-lived, low-maintenance perennial.
The nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making this species a favorite for pollinator and wildlife gardens. The flowering stalks also work well as fresh cut flowers. Calico Beardtongue performs best in well-drained soils and tolerates drought once established, pairing beautifully with grasses and other native perennials in mixed borders, pollinator patches, and wildflower meadows.
Species: Penstemon calycosus
Type: Herbaceous perennial wildflower
Plant_Habit: Upright clumping, 60 to 90 cm tall
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, sandy to loamy, average fertility
Days_to_Harvest: Not applicable
Zones: 4 to 8
Germination: 14 to 30 days with cold stratification
Sowing: Surface sow, press lightly, do not cover deeply
Spacing: 30 to 45 cm apart
Notes: Cold stratify seeds 4 to 6 weeks before sowing for best results