Origin
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck is a type of perennial herbaceous plant that is native to North America. Specifically, it can be found in the Great Plains region, spanning from the Dakotas down to Texas.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as snake-mouth penstemon due to the shape of its flowers, which resemble a snake's open mouth. It is also sometimes known as James' beardtongue, after the botanist who first documented this species.
Uses
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus has traditionally been used by Indigenous peoples to treat various ailments, including respiratory conditions, headaches, and skin irritations. It is also a popular plant among gardeners due to its vibrant purple flowers, which attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.
General Appearance
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus is a small and compact plant, typically growing to be around 10 to 18 inches tall. Its leaves are narrow and elongated, with serrated edges. The plant's flowers bloom in the early summer and are an eye-catching shade of purple, with white markings on the lower lip. The flowers grow in clusters on upright stalks that rise above the foliage.
Growth Conditions of Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck is a wildflower plant that is native to western North America, particularly in the central and southern Rocky Mountains. This plant typically grows in dry and open habitats such as grasslands, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil types and can tolerate drought and harsh environmental conditions.
Light Conditions
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure per day to grow and thrive. When grown in shady locations, this plant may develop weak and leggy stems, and may not produce sufficient flower blooms.
Temperature Conditions
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck thrives in hot and arid environments, and can tolerate high temperatures during the summer months. Its dormant phase occurs during winter when temperatures can go below freezing, but it can withstand frost. The ideal temperature range for the growth of this plant is between 65°F and 80°F. When grown outside of this temperature range, the plant tends to produce lower flower and seed yields.
Soil Requirements
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck grows best in well-draining soil types with low to moderate fertility. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0. When grown in poorly drained soils, this plant may develop root rot and other fungal diseases. Adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure can improve soil fertility and water retention.
Cultivation Methods
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck is native to the western United States and is well suited for rock gardens, borders, and naturalized settings. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5 pH). Plant it in the spring or fall when the soil temperature is cooler.
Watering Needs
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck prefers to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week or more frequently during hot, dry weather. Be sure to water the soil around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves. Avoid watering in the late afternoon or evening, as this could lead to the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck does not require much fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring before new growth appears. Alternatively, you can use an organic fertilizer, such as compost or well-aged manure. Avoid fertilizing after mid-summer as this can cause the plant to produce too much foliage and not enough flowers.
Pruning
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck does not require much pruning. If the plant becomes too leggy or bushy, you can cut it back by one-third in the spring before new growth appears. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote the production of new blooms. In the fall, after the first frost, cut the stems down to the ground and discard the foliage to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck should be collected in late summer when the capsules have turned brown and the seeds have turned black. The seeds should be placed in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be sown in early spring. To improve germination, the seeds should be stratified for a period of four to six weeks before sowing. Stratification can be achieved by mixing the seeds with moist sand and storing them in a refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F to 45°F. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in flats or pots filled with a soilless growing mix. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in early summer. Cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still tender. The cuttings should be 3 to 4 inches long and should be taken from the top of the plant. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a container filled with a soilless growing mix. The container should be covered with plastic to maintain high humidity. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a warm, bright location. After 2 to 3 weeks, the cuttings should start to develop roots.
Division Propagation
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus (Pennell) Keck can also be propagated by division. Divide the plant in early spring before new growth appears. Dig up the entire root system and divide it into two or more sections. Replant the divided sections in a well-draining soil mix in a location with full sun to partial shade, and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it can still be affected by some common diseases:
- Botrytis blight: This disease is caused by a fungus that produces grayish-brown mold on the plant. It can be controlled by removing infected parts, improving air circulation, and ensuring adequate sunlight.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots, causing them to rot. It can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
- Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungus that produces powdery white patches on the leaves. It can be controlled by removing infected parts, improving air circulation, and applying fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management
Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus can also be attacked by some common pests:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and deformed leaves. They can be controlled by spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause a yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. They can be controlled by increasing humidity around the plant, removing infected parts, and spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These insects can cause scarring and distortion of the plant tissue. They can be controlled by removing infected parts and spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
It is important to regularly inspect and monitor Penstemon jamesii Benth. ssp. ophianthus for signs of disease and pests so that appropriate action can be taken immediately to prevent damage to the plant. Avoid using chemical pesticides as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.
