Plant Description:
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck, commonly known as the southern Oregon beardtongue, is an herbaceous perennial plant that is part of the snapdragon family (Scrophulariaceae). The plant typically grows to a height of 14-28 inches and has dark green leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped. The leaves of this plant are arranged oppositely around the stem, and the flowers are produced in a dense, terminal raceme.
Origin:
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck, is native to western North America, specifically in the areas of British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and California. This species is typically found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, rocky slopes, and forest margins
Common Names:
This plant is commonly known as the southern Oregon beardtongue, and it is also occasionally referred to as Tolmie's penstemon or Formosa beardtongue.
Uses:
This plant is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes for its attractive flowers, which bloom in shades of blue-purple to deep pink. The flowers of this plant also serve as an important source of nectar for pollinators, such as hummingbirds and bees. Additionally, the plant has also been used medicinally by indigenous peoples as a remedy for various ailments, including sore throats and respiratory infections.
Growth Conditions for Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck, commonly known as Coast Penstemon or Tiger Penstemon, is a hardy plant renowned for its vibrant, blue-purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. To ensure optimal growth and development of the plant, certain growth conditions need to be met.
Light
Coast Penstemon thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. Ideally, the plant should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The intensity of the sunlight can affect the color of the flowers with more sunlight intensifying the blue-purple hue.
Temperature
Coast Penstemon is best suited for cool to mild temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C). The plant prefers a coastal climate, with cool and moist conditions prevalent throughout the year. Drought and extreme heat can cause stress to the plant and may lead to poor growth and reduced flowering.
Soil Requirements
Coast Penstemon requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. The plant can survive in various soil conditions, including sandy, loamy, and gravelly soil, as long as the soil is well-drained. The ideal soil pH for coast penstemon growth ranges between 6.0 to 7.5. Any significant deviation from the optimal pH range may inhibit nutrient uptake and impact the overall growth of the plant.
Monitoring these growth conditions can help ensure that Coast Penstemon thrives in your garden or landscape. Proper maintenance of the plant, including regular watering and fertilization, can also aid in long-term growth and prevent diseases or pests from impacting the plant.
Cultivation
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to thrive. This plant prefers full sun or partial shade, making it easy to grow in a variety of conditions. It is also a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and freezing temperatures, making it an excellent choice for gardeners in colder regions.
Watering Needs
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck requires moderate watering, which should be done deeply. The soil should be allowed to dry out partially before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be sure not to water this plant too frequently or too much.
Fertilization
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck benefits from fertilization once every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Be sure not to over-fertilize, as this can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck requires minimal pruning. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooms, and trim back any leggy or damaged growth to improve the plant's appearance. Pruning should be done in the spring or fall, as Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck is a semi-evergreen plant that retains some foliage throughout the winter.
Propagation of Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck is commonly known as Cascade penstemon and it is a beautiful perennial with purple-blue tubular flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. This plant is found in mountain meadows and rocky slopes and is native to North America. It is a hardy plant that requires minimal care and is perfect for gardens that require low maintenance.
Propagation Methods
Penstemon tolmiei can be propagated through various methods including seeds, root cuttings, and stem cuttings. The choice of the propagation method depends on the gardener’s preferences and availability of the materials.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method for propagating Penstemon tolmiei. The seeds are usually sown in early spring in well-draining soil that is moist. The seeds are delicate, and they require appropriate watering, temperature, and care until they germinate, which usually takes around 10-12 days. Once the seedlings have grown to around 3-4 inches in height, they can be transplanted into their permanent locations.
Propagation through Root Cuttings
Propagation through root cuttings is another effective method for propagating Penstemon tolmiei. This method is perfect for gardeners who want to propagate many plants from one established plant. Root cuttings should be around 3-4 inches in length and taken from healthy plants during the dormant season. These cuttings should be planted in soil and kept moist until they establish new roots and grow into new plants.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is the quickest method for propagating Penstemon tolmiei. This method involves taking stem cuttings from healthy plants, around 4-6 inches in length, during the early summer months. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone, planted in soil, and kept moist until they establish new roots. Once they grow to around 3-4 inches in height, they can be transplanted into their permanent locations.
Disease Management
Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck is generally a hardy plant that does not suffer from many diseases. However, in certain conditions, it may be affected by some diseases, which are:
- Root rot: This is caused by the fungus Phytophthora, which thrives in waterlogged soil. Infected plants may wilt and appear stunted. They may also have discolored leaves and stems, and their roots may turn brown or black and become mushy. To manage root rot, remove the infected plants and improve drainage in the soil.
- Leaf spot: This is caused by the fungal pathogen Cercospora, which results in the formation of small, circular spots on leaves. The leaves may turn yellow, and if the disease progresses, they may fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove affected leaves and provide adequate spacing between plants for increased air circulation.
- Powdery mildew: This is caused by the fungus Erysiphe, which results in the formation of a white, powdery growth on leaves. Infected plants may have distorted leaves, and the leaves may turn yellow and fall off. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plants.
Pest Management
Some pests might cause problems for Penstemon tolmiei Hook. ssp. formosus (A. Nels.) Keck. The most common pests are:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of plants. Infected plants may appear stunted, yellowed, and curled. To manage aphids, wash the plants with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that can cause yellowish stippling on leaves. If left unchecked, the leaves may turn brown and fall off. To manage spider mites, wash the plants with a strong stream of water or apply an insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These are slender insects that feed on leaves and flowers, leaving behind silvery speckles on the leaves and flowers. Infected flowers may have scars, and the petals may become deformed. To manage thrips, use sticky traps or apply insecticidal soap.
It is important to monitor the plants regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation and take appropriate measures as soon as possible to prevent any spread.
