Foxglove Beard Tongue (Penstemon digitalis)

Distinguishing Characteristics

Basal leaves on long stalks. Leaf margin mostly smooth to slightly toothed. Lower surface occasionally a faint purple. 

Height

Up to 4 feet, but usually shorter

Blooms

May to July

Description

This is the tallest of four white-flowered. Penstemon species in Missouri. Of the five stamens, one is modified into a hairy “tongue” and positioned centrally, likely to attract insects for pollination.

Comments

Common throughout tallgrass prairie region, it is found in habitats that range from fallow fields to native prairies to woodland edges. Grows in moist to dry soil conditions. Easy to establish from seed, it often colonizes areas being restored.