PENSTEMON grandiflorus (Large-flowered Beardtongue) A Wisconsin Native forb or perennial, Large-flowered Beardtongue is one of the showiest of all Penstemons! While it is short lived, if left to self-seed in the prairie or garden, it will produce its show of stunning, large, tubular pink to purple flowers in May or June year after year. This plant is endangered in some states and is typically rare to see in the wild. Bumblebees like to visit the flowers for nectar and is well liked by birds. In addition to the many pollinators it attracts, Penstemon grandiflorus is one of the host plants for the Chalcedon Checkerspot and Edith’s Checkerspot. Obviously, it is loved by bees and hummingbirds.

A Native, Naturally! Forb, it prefers average, well-drained to dry soil in full sun.

(Image courtesy of Wiki Media)