Smooth Beardtongue (Penstemon calcycosus)
PEN-steh-mon calcycosus

Deciduous Perennial in the Plantaginaceae Family

Penstemon calycosus, the captivating longsepal beardtongue, enchants with its flaring, bugle-shaped flowers that fan out in stunning clusters. These blossoms dance across a spectrum of delicate mauves and lavenders, sometimes showcasing rich maroon and aubergine tones, especially at the base of the petals. The plant's bright, glossy green leaves are positioned in striking opposition, their upright stems maintaining fabulous posture in the garden, often accentuated by contrasting, blushing reds.

If seasonal conditions are just right, the foliage and seed pods of Penstemon calycosus can transform into a fiery scarlet in the fall, adding another layer of captivating beauty. This adaptable beardtongue will even tolerate more shade than many of its kin, making it a superb candidate for brightening woodland areas and dappled shade cottage gardens.

While Calico Beardtongue prefers rich, consistently moist soil, especially in full sun, it remains an accommodating perennial. In the southern reaches of its native range, the basal rosettes may even remain somewhat evergreen all year long, allowing gardeners to enjoy its elegant presence year-round. With its flamboyant, bugle-shaped blooms and versatile growing habits, Penstemon calycosus is a true standout in any perennial planting.

 

Plant Data

Mature Size 24 - 36 inches tall. 12 - 18 inches wide.
Sun Exposure Full Shade - Full Sun
Moisture Tolerance Medium
Zones 5a - 9b (Usually hardy to -20° F)
Tags Attracts Hummingbirds, Deciduous, Full Shade, Full Sun, Illinois Native, Low Maintenance, Medium, Native to North America, Non-Allergenic, Partial Shade, Partial Sun, Perennial, Rabbit Resistant
Bloom Period May - June
Flower Color Pale purple-pink
Smooth Beardtongue, in bloom
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Pricing and Availability History

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Limited Availability

We try very hard to source exactly what you’d like, but sometimes growers run out of plants! While this variety is a great deal at the price shown, we know that it has limited availability. If you want the plant even if it might be more expensive, or in a different size or quantity -- after you place your order, just send us a quick note at help@northshoreplantclub.com. Then, we’ll try to get you some version of this from one of our growers. And if we can’t get it from anywhere, of course, we’ll send a refund!


Field-Grown vs. Greenhouse-Grown Plants

Plants which are well-adapted to our local climate are most often field-grown (outside). Field-grown plants are generally cheaper and have the advantage of already somewhat acclimated to our cold winters, but that means they’re not artificially far along in the spring and tend to bloom at the normal time in our area.

Spring annuals and tender perennials are typically grown in Greenhouses so they can be ready and luxurious exactly when customers want them. Some perennials are also “forced” into early bloom in greenhouses. In May, there can be a very big difference between field-grown and greenhouse-grown plants of the same type. The latter typically look good right away (so they’re a great choice where that’s important), but we typically pay a premium for it.


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No Pricing or Availability Right Now

We order from a rotating cast of the best nurseries in the Great Lakes region. It looks like we've offered this plant in the past, but the nurseries we're working with this week don't appear to have it in stock at the moment.

Our goal is to bring as many plants together under "one roof" as possible, so we'll try hard to make it available again in the future!