Pike's Peak Purple Penstemon Plant

Pike's Peak Purple is a strong grower with attractive glossy green foliage from which beautiful grape-colored flowers with white striped throats bloom over a long period throughout summer and into fall. Occasional shearing encourages re-bloom for this heat resistant plant. Known to attract butterflies, plants require good drainage in winter for successful overwintering. An introduction from Plant Select and The Denver Botanic Gardens.

Our Penstemon Plants are cultivated with care and grown without harmful pesticides, ensuring they are a safe and colorful addition to your garden. Guaranteed to arrive healthy and ready to thrive!

Planting Instructions:

• - Best planted in spring or fall for optimal root establishment
• - Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for mature growth

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.5
• - Prefers well-drained soil, tolerates sandy or rocky soils

Watering Specifics:

• - Water thoroughly when first planted, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings
• - Once established, Penstemon is drought-tolerant and thrives with minimal watering

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a light, balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth and blooming
• - Avoid heavy fertilization, as Penstemon performs best in leaner soils

Pruning and Training:

• - Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering
• - Cut back stems after flowering to promote new growth and prevent leggy growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Penstemon is generally pest-free but may occasionally attract aphids or slugs; monitor as needed
• - Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew and other fungal issues

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms from late spring to early summer with tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, or white

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, tolerates heat and drought once established

Companion Plants for Penstemon:

• - Echinacea: Complements Penstemon with its vibrant, daisy-like blooms and pollinator appeal
• - Lavender: Adds a fragrant, drought-tolerant companion that pairs well with Penstemon’s tubular flowers
• - Salvia: Provides vertical spikes of blue or purple flowers that contrast with Penstemon’s softer tones
• - Coreopsis: Offers a bright, continuous display of yellow blooms that enhances Penstemon’s colorful flowers
• - Rudbeckia: Adds bold, yellow flowers that complement Penstemon’s spiky form