Hairy Beardtongue Flowers Seed (Penstemon hirsutus) native perennials Wildflower

Penstemon hirsutus — Hairy Beardtongue — is a versatile native perennial wildflower producing open clusters of trumpet-shaped lavender flowers with a characteristic protruding hairy lower lip, blooming from late May through July. Its early bloom time and hairy stems distinguish it from other Beardtongue species. Highly attractive to bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Adaptable to a wide range of sun conditions and soil moisture levels — from medium-wet to dry soils. Deer resistant. Native to eastern North America. 1–2 feet tall and wide.

Plant Highlights

• Trumpet-shaped lavender blooms with hairy lower lip; late May through July
• Highly attractive to hummingbirds, bumblebees, and butterflies
• Grows in full sun to full shade — one of the most adaptable native penstemons
• Tolerates medium-wet to dry soils; suitable for a wide range of home landscapes
• Deer resistant; native to eastern North America
• 1–2 feet tall and wide; lance-shaped, toothed, opposite leaves

Planting Specs

• Common name: Hairy Beardtongue
• Botanical name: Penstemon hirsutus
• Type: Native perennial wildflower
• Bloom color: Lavender (pale purples, blues, to white range)
• Bloom time: Late May–July
• Height: 1–2 feet | Spread: 1–2 feet
• Light: Full sun to full shade
• Soil moisture: Medium-wet to dry
• Deer resistant: Yes
• Attracts: Hummingbirds, bumblebees, butterflies
• Native range: Eastern North America
• Use: Native plantings, wildflower gardens, pollinator gardens, rock gardens, borders