Penstemons are valuable garden plants, grown for their long-flowering season and popularity with bees. There are many different types of penstemon, with some suited to the alpine garden while the majority are at home in the heart of a herbaceous border. Border penstemons have tubular late summer flowers in a wide range of colours. The flowers look very similar to those of a foxglove.
If you’re looking at your border in late summer and need to add some instant colour, penstemons are the answer. Plant in groups of three or five for impact. Most border penstemons will continue to flower up until the first frosts.
How to grow penstemonsGrow penstemons in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Mulch annually with well-rotted manure or leaf mould, and feed weekly in summer. Penstemons are short-lived perennials that can suffer in winter. To avoid losses, pruning penstemon is best done in spring. It’s also a good idea to take summer cuttings to prevent winter losses.
More on growing penstemons:
Learn how to grow penstemons in our comprehensive guide, below.
Where to grow penstemonsBorder penstemons are perfect for growing in the middle of a mixed border. They do best in a fertile, reasonably moist soil that is free-draining. Full sun or light shade is ideal.
How to plant penstemonsPlant penstemons in spring so that new plants get a foothold before having to face the winter. Stems are strong so it’s only in very exposed gardens that plant supports will be required.
How to propagate penstemonsTake penstemon cuttings from late summer to early autumn. Select soft growth without a flower. Cut each cutting
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