Origin
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis (Keck) Nisbet & R.C. Jackson is a species of the Penstemon plant that is native to the southwestern United States, specifically found in New Mexico and Colorado.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Crandall's Penstemon or Taos Beardtongue.
Uses
Native American tribes have traditionally used the roots of the Crandall's Penstemon as a remedy for toothache. Today, the plant is primarily grown as an ornamental, prized for its showy flowers and drought-resistant nature. It is a popular plant for xeriscaping, a type of landscaping that emphasizes water conservation.
General Appearance
The Crandall's Penstemon is a perennial plant, growing up to two feet in height. It has thick stems and narrow, lance-like leaves that are a pale green color. The flowers are tubular in shape with five petals that range in color from deep purple to pink or white. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer and the flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis (Keck) Nisbet & R.C. Jackson grows well in full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as much and may become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to high elevations in the southwestern United States, and it thrives in cooler temperatures. It can tolerate some heat but prefers temperatures in the range of 60-80°F. In the winter, it can survive temperatures as low as -20°F.
Soil Requirements
P. crandallii var. taosensis grows best in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. It does not tolerate soils that are too heavy or waterlogged. Sandy loam or loamy soils with some organic matter are ideal. The plant is adapted to growing on rocky slopes and can tolerate some drought, but it still requires consistent moisture.
Cultivation methods
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis (Keck) Nisbet & R.C. Jackson is a relatively easy plant to cultivate in the garden. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Make sure to plant it in an area where it will have adequate air circulation to reduce the risk of disease.
Watering needs
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis (Keck) Nisbet & R.C. Jackson prefers moderate watering. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of the soil are dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis (Keck) Nisbet & R.C. Jackson. However, if you want to encourage more abundant blooming, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Pruning
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis (Keck) Nisbet & R.C. Jackson is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Prune the plant in early spring to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged plant material.
Propagation of Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis (Keck) Nisbet & R.C. Jackson can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis can be propagated by seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature plants in the fall and can be stored in a cool and dry place until spring. In spring, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix, and kept in a warm and sunny location. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers once they are large enough to handle, and can be planted outdoors after the last frost.
Propagation by Cuttings
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis can also be propagated by stem or leaf cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken from the plant in early summer, and hardwood cuttings can be taken in the fall. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a potting mix of sand and peat. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm and sunny location until roots develop, after which they can be transplanted to individual containers and planted outdoors after the last frost.
Propagation by Division
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis can also be propagated by division. This is done by digging up an established plant and dividing the root ball into several sections. Each section should have multiple stems and a sufficient amount of roots. The sections can be replanted in a well-draining soil and kept moist until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis
Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis, commonly known as Crandall's beardtongue, is a hardy and adaptable plant that requires minimal care. However, it is still prone to diseases and pests that can cause serious damage to the plant if not managed properly. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root Rot: If the soil surrounding the plant is excessively wet, it can lead to root rot disease. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, remove any affected plant parts, improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungus that leaves a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can cause leaves to yellow and wilt, which can lead to stunted growth or death of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, provide adequate sunlight and air circulation, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Botrytis Blight: Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that causes gray mold on the flowers, leaves, and stem. It makes the plant weak and susceptible to other diseases. To manage Botrytis blight, remove any affected plant parts, apply a fungicide, and avoid over-fertilizing.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids often appear on new growth as clusters of small, soft-bodied insects. They suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and curling of leaves. To control aphids, spray plants with water or insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the leaves, causing tiny white or yellow dots that turn brown over time. They can also spin webs on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray plants with water or a miticide and improve air circulation.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars often appear in early summer and chew large, ragged holes in the leaves and flowers. To manage caterpillars, remove any affected plant parts, and apply a suitable insecticide.
By keeping an eye out for these diseases and pests, and following the suggested management techniques, you can maintain healthy and beautiful Penstemon crandallii A. Nels. var. taosensis plants in your garden.
