Penstemon 'Evelyn'
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BEARD TONGUE
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Pronounced: pen-STAY-mon
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Perennial.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: Not Listed.
USDA zones: 7 -10.
Mature size:
Height: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).
Width: 12 inches (30 cm).
Flowering period:
Midsummer to mid autumn.
Flowering attributes:
Tubular, bell-shaped, pink with a tint of blue flower.
Leaf attributes:
Evergreen, narrow leaf.
Growth habit:
Clump-forming.
Light:
Full sun.
Soil:
Fertile, well-drained soil.
Feeding:
I keep penstemons on the lean side, because they tend to live longer if not over fertilized. Side-dress with compost or manures in fall. Feed in spring with a complete organic fertilizer.
Propagation Methods:
Divide in late spring. | Softwood cuttings in spring.
Pruning Methods:
Deadhead as flowers fade to prolong blooming; cut back to lateral flowers or buds. Later cut old flowering stems back to basal foliage. The foliage will remain evergreen through winter.
Rainy Side Notes
With its pastel pink flowers, Penstemon 'Evelyn' is best planted in a pastel garden. However, I paired it with the deep burgundy foliage of Ladies Anne's lace (Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'), a pleasing combination. This bushy perennial is hardier than most penstemons. Its lineage is not known for sure; it most likely has P. barbatus in its parentage. This is a short-lived perennial worth growing for its long-blooming period, fine textured leaves. Another benefit—it attracts hummingbirds.
In 1993, the Royal Horticultural Society gave the plant an Award of Garden Merit.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
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