Shorter beardtongue that blooms relatively early and likes dry conditions. Blooms May-June with tubular white flowers that may be slightly tinged with purple or pink, accented in the center with a hairy yellow patch, and borne on pyramid-shaped panicles. Plant parts are covered with downy hairs. Host plant for moth larvae, including those of the Chalcedony midget and Saunder’s sallow moths, and visited by hummingbirds and bees, including bumble bees.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Pale Beard Tongue
Penstemon pallidus
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Glade, Prairie, Savanna / Woodland
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June)
Main Color: White
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Photo: Mervin Wallace
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade
Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate
Nature Attracting
Hummingbird, Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Host, Food/Pollinators
Animal
Resistance
Deer Resistant
Size
Height:
12 to
18
inches
Spread:
8 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 12 to
18
inches
Spread: 8 to
12
inches
Size
Height: 12 to
18
inches
Spread: 8 to
12
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Grouped or massed in beds, borders, and open woodland or prairie plantings; xeriphytic gardens and rock gardens.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Plant in well-drained soil.
Special Features
Special Usage
Salt Tolerant
Basic Description
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
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