Description
Commonly known as:
Catherine de la Mare Penstemon, Beardtongue
Description of Plant:
Penstemon ‘Catherine de la Mare’ is a compact perennial prized for its vivid blue-violet, tubular flowers and attractive green foliage. From late spring into summer, abundant blooms create a striking display while attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. In addition, its manageable size makes it an excellent choice for borders, containers, rock gardens, and pollinator plantings.
Growth Habit:
This compact, bushy perennial typically grows 12–18 inches tall and about 18–24 inches wide. Upright flower stems rise above the foliage and create a colorful, airy display.
Watering Instructions:
Water regularly while the plant establishes. Once established, provide occasional deep watering and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid constantly wet soil.
Soil Needs:
Prefers well-draining soil and performs especially well in sandy, rocky, or gravelly conditions. Good drainage helps keep plants healthy and long-lived.
Sun Requirements:
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. In hotter inland areas of Southern California, some afternoon shade can help protect the plant during summer.
Indoor or Outdoor Tips:
Best grown outdoors in borders, rock gardens, pollinator gardens, or containers. Remove spent flower stalks to keep the plant tidy and encourage additional blooms.
Perennial or Annual:
Perennial in Southern California.
Additional Tips:
The tubular blue-violet flowers are especially attractive to hummingbirds, while bees and butterflies also visit the blooms. In addition, deadheading can extend the flowering season. Avoid rich soil and excessive fertilizer, which can encourage floppy growth.
