Penstemon digitalis is a durable upright perennial valued for its spires of white to pale pink tubular flowers and burgundy tinged stems. Blooming in late spring to early summer, it provides a vertical accent in mixed borders and supports pollinators with abundant nectar. Its tolerance of a wide range of soils and conditions makes it an adaptable addition to both naturalistic and formal garden designs.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 12 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Well drained soil, tolerates clay and poor soils once established
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant due to bitter foliage
Native Status
Penstemon digitalis is native to eastern and central North America, thriving in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Highly attractive to long tongued native bees and bumblebees which access its tubular blooms for nectar.
Butterflies
- Occasionally visited by swallowtails and fritillaries seeking nectar from its clusters of flowers.
Hummingbirds
- Draws Ruby Throated Hummingbirds that hover at the tubular flowers during late spring feeding.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides nectar to predatory hoverflies and parasitic wasps that help control garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 18 - 24 in apart for a full upright clump and optimal air circulation.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and prairie style plantings where its vertical spires add seasonal height.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Blue green blades and copper fall tones create a textural backdrop.
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Soft lavender blooms and aromatic foliage attract pollinators in midsummer.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Airy yellow flowers carpet the base with a continuous soft display.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Golden blooms provide a bright contrast in mid to late summer after penstemon flowers fade.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Large purple coneflowers complement the vertical white spires with bold color.