Origin
Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck, commonly known as Northern Beardtongue, is a plant that is native to North America. Its range extends from the Great Plains region in central USA up north to the Canadian border, and as far west as the Rocky Mountains. It can be found growing in a variety of ecological conditions including open meadows, rocky slopes, and forest edges.
Common Names
The Northern Beardtongue is commonly known as Fuzzy Tongue, Bunchleaf Penstemon, and Northern Penstemon.
Uses
The Northern Beardtongue has several uses depending on its location. In the Great Plains region, it is used as a forage plant for livestock, while in the Rocky Mountains, it is a popular ornamental plant for its striking appearance. Its tubular-shaped flowers have a unique texture and come in varying shades of purple and pink, which attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees.
General Appearance
The Northern Beardtongue is a perennial herb that can grow up to 16 inches in height. It is characterized by its long, narrow leaves that grow in bunches at the bottom of the plant and its tubular-shaped flowers that grow from tall, erect stems. The flowers have five lobes and are approximately an inch in length. The plant's stems and leaves are covered in fine white hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance.
Light Requirements
Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck thrives in full sun to partial shade. A location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight is ideal. If grown indoors, place it near a south-facing window to ensure it gets enough light.
Temperature Range
The plant is cold hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). The high summer temperatures shouldn't be a cause of concern as long as it receives adequate irrigation.
Soil and Water Requirements
Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH but performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6-7). The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and insufficient water can cause wilting.
Fertilizer Applications
Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck benefits from occasional fertilizations. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer during the active growing season to enhance the plant's growth and flowering. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion or worm castings. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause excessive foliage growth and reduce flowering.
Cultivation methods
The Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck is a hardy perennial plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It prefers sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 4.5 and 7.5. Plant the Penstemon ternatus in the spring or fall, in areas with a moderate climate, where the temperature is not too hot or too cold. Avoid planting the Penstemon ternatus in areas with high humidity or poor drainage.
Watering needs
The Penstemon ternatus requires moderate watering, especially during the first year of planting. Water it every seven to ten days, ensuring that the soil is damp but not waterlogged. The plant can tolerate drought, but too much water can cause root rot or fungal disease. Reduce the frequency of watering during the winter months, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization
The Penstemon ternatus does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring or early summer, following the instructions on the packaging. Alternatively, you can add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to the soil around the plant, providing it with nutrients that promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing the plant in the fall, as this can encourage new growth, which may not have time to harden off before winter.
Pruning
The Penstemon ternatus requires minimal pruning; however, trimming it back can help promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. Prune the plant in the spring before new growth appears, removing the dead or damaged stems and any undesired growth. Avoid pruning the plant in the fall, as this can stimulate new growth, making it susceptible to winter damage.
Propagation for Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck
The Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck plant can be propagated by both seed and vegetative methods.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest method, and the best time to plant seeds is in the fall, directly in the ground or in containers. Sow the seeds on top of a moist mix of soil and sand, cover them lightly with soil, and keep the soil moist until the seedlings appear in three to four weeks.
Once the seedlings reach a height of two inches, they can be transplanted to bigger pots and grown under controlled conditions, with bright light and low humidity. After 4 to 6 weeks, the young plants can be transplanted into the field or garden bed, with a spacing of 12 to 18 inches, depending on the variety.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is suitable for more mature plants that have survived a few growing seasons. This method involves the division of the root mass or stem cuttings.
For root division, carefully dig up the clump and divide the roots into sections, each with a few buds and healthy roots. Replant the divided clumps in well-draining soil, water thoroughly, and keep the soil moist in the first few weeks until the plants have re-established.
For stem cuttings, choose a healthy stem tip, about six inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder or gel. Place the cutting in a container filled with sterile potting soil, water thoroughly, and cover the container with a plastic bag or dome to create a humid microclimate. Place the container in bright, indirect light, and remove the covering in two to three weeks when the cutting has rooted and new growth appears.
Disease Management
Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck is generally a hardy plant species, but it can be susceptible to several diseases that can diminish its health and vigor. Some of the common diseases affecting this plant species include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease typically manifests as yellowish-brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it's recommended that you remove the infected leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the disease. Applying fungicides may also help to control the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease occurs as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It's caused by fungal pathogens, and it thrives in warm, humid conditions. To manage this disease, it's advisable to prune out the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them. Applying fungicides can also help to manage powdery mildew.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungal pathogens that thrive in wet soil conditions. This disease can cause the roots to become brown and mushy, which can lead to the wilting of the plant. To manage root rot, it's advisable to reduce watering and improve soil drainage. In severe cases, you may need to remove the infected plants from the garden.
Pest Management
Penstemon ternatus Torr. ex Gray ssp. septentrionalis (Munz & Johnston) Keck can also be affected by several pests that may impact its growth and development. Some of the common pests affecting this plant species include:
- Aphids: These pests are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant sap. They usually cluster on the undersides of the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. To manage aphids, it's recommended that you use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny, spider-like insects that suck sap from the plant. They typically cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it's recommended that you spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests. You can also use insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
- Cutworms: These pests are larvae of nocturnal moths that feed on the plant stems at ground level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, it's advisable to apply a physical barrier, such as collars made of cardboard or plastic, around the base of the plant. You can also use insecticides that contain Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) to control cutworms.
