Penstemon calycosus-Calico Beardtongue

Calico Beardtongue is a hardy and versatile native with glossy, slightly pubescent leaves that emerge stalkless and opposite one another along the length of its upright stems. In early to mid summer delicate tubular flowers in shades of pink and lavender rise up in stalked clusters and attract long-tongued pollinators including hummingbirds and an array of bees. Penstemon leaves play larval host to numerous butterfly species including the threatened Baltimore Checkerspot. Calico beardtongue is more shade tolerant than other penstemon species.   Sun: Full, Partial, Shade Soil: Medium-Wet, Medium Bloom Time: June, July Color: Pink Height: 4 ft