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Hairy penstemon

Name: Hairy penstemon
Brand: Akène
SKU: AKE-SEMGR1
Price: 4.99 CAD
Availability: InStock

Common name Hairy Beardtongue

Latin name Penstemon hirsutus

Quantity per packet Minimum of 300 seeds

This native perennial actively supports biodiversity through its nectar-rich flowers while providing an outstanding low-maintenance choice for ecological landscapes and pollinator gardens.

Product information

Product
identification

Common nameHairy Beardtongue

Latin namePenstemon hirsutus

FamilyPlantaginaceae

TypeNative perennial

CyclePerennial

Quantity per packMinimum of 300 seeds

Code produitAKENE-0038

Product
description

Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus) is a compact, floriferous native perennial perfect for rock gardens, sunny borders, containers, and pollinator gardens. Its pale lavender to violet tubular flowers appear in spring and attract hummingbirds, native bees, bumblebees, and butterflies. Its airy habit adds graceful vertical interest without overwhelming plantings, while its green foliage brings natural texture to the garden. Hardy and well adapted to Canadian conditions, it is an excellent choice for low-maintenance ecological landscapes.

Easy to grow, Hairy Beardtongue prefers sandy to loamy, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Once established, it tolerates dry periods fairly well but dislikes heavy or waterlogged soils, especially in winter. Moderate watering during establishment, a light spring application of compost, and excellent drainage are usually enough to maintain strong flowering. Its compact size makes it useful in small spaces as well as larger naturalistic plantings.

In the garden, Hairy Beardtongue pairs beautifully with Spotted Bee Balm, Black-eyed Susan, Common Evening Primrose, and Butterfly Milkweed to create nectar-rich, biodiversity-friendly plantings. Its tubular flowers provide valuable early-season resources for pollinators, while its seed capsules can be left standing to support beneficial wildlife. With elegant blooms, excellent hardiness, and strong adaptation to well-drained soils, Penstemon hirsutus is an ideal perennial for rock gardens, natural borders, and sustainable gardens throughout Canada.

Sowing
guide

Sowing periodAutumn or spring after cold stratification

Best time

Spring or autumn

Sowing depth3 mm (0.1 in)

Spacing / density

20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in)

Germination temperature18 to 22°C (64 to 72°F)

Germination time7 to 21 days

Propagation

Propagate by seed and occasionally by dividing mature clumps. Seeds germinate readily after a short cold stratification and produce vigorous new plants.

Growing
method

Sow Hairy Beardtongue seeds in autumn or spring after a short period of cold stratification to improve germination. Cover the seeds lightly with about 3 mm (0.1 in) of fine growing medium and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Germination usually occurs within one to three weeks at temperatures between 18 and 22°C (64 to 72°F). Plant seedlings in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Once established, this native perennial tolerates moderate drought and is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and naturalistic landscapes. Under favorable conditions, it may self-seed lightly.

Soil
and care

ExposureFull sun to partial shade

Soil

Sandy to loamy, well-drained soil

Soil pH6.0 to 7.5

Watering

Water moderately during establishment, then only during prolonged drought. This perennial prefers slightly moist, well-drained soil and dislikes standing water.

Fertilization

Hairy Beardtongue grows well in relatively poor soils and requires very little fertilizer. A light application of mature compost in spring is generally sufficient to support healthy growth and flowering without encouraging excessive foliage.

Care levelLow

In spring, remove old stems and apply a light layer of compost around the plants without burying the crown. During summer, water only during extended dry periods to encourage abundant flowering. Remove spent flower spikes to prolong ornamental interest and reduce excessive self-seeding. In autumn, leave some stems standing to provide food and shelter for wildlife. Excellent drainage throughout winter is essential for long-term health.

Container
growing

Recommended pot size

30 cm (12 in)

Hairy Beardtongue grows exceptionally well in containers thanks to its compact root system and preference for well-drained soil. Use a container at least 30 cm (12 in) deep filled with a light growing medium enriched with compost. Place it in full sun to encourage abundant flowering and attract hummingbirds and pollinators to patios and balconies. Excellent drainage is especially important during winter. Cut flowers also make charming additions to small natural bouquets.

Bloom,
harvest
and garden

Its abundant blooms attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies while adding elegant vertical accents to rock gardens and pollinator plantings. Its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils makes it an exceptionally reliable native perennial.

This native perennial actively supports biodiversity through its nectar-rich flowers while providing an outstanding low-maintenance choice for ecological landscapes and pollinator gardens.

Garden use

Hairy Beardtongue is perfect for rock gardens, sunny borders, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. It combines beautifully with Butterfly Milkweed, Black-eyed Susan, and other native perennials to create colorful, biodiversity-rich plantings. Its compact habit also makes it ideal for containers and smaller gardens, while its tubular flowers add graceful vertical structure without overwhelming surrounding plants.

Bloom period

May to June

Flower colorPale lavender to violet

Foliage colorGreen

Harvest

June to July

Fruiting

Seed capsules

Wildlife appealHummingbirds, bees, and butterflies

Size
and facts

Height30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)

Spread20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in)

Growth rateModerate

Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8

Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)

Foliage typeDeciduous

Colibristrue

Papillonstrue

Insectes utilestrue

Planting
partners

Good companions

Spotted Bee Balm, Black-eyed Susan, Common Evening Primrose, Butterfly Milkweed

Avoid planting with

Northern Blue Flag Iris, Marsh Marigold, Ligularia, Horsetail

Recipe
and inspiration

Hairy Beardtongue is grown primarily for its ornamental and ecological value rather than for culinary purposes. Its nectar-rich tubular flowers support hummingbirds, native bees, butterflies, and many other beneficial pollinators. It is an outstanding companion plant for biodiversity gardens, rock gardens, and prairie-style landscapes, where its greatest value comes from its long-lasting blooms and ecological importance.

Frequently asked questions

When should I sow Hairy Beardtongue seeds? +

Hairy Beardtongue seeds can be sown in spring or autumn. A short period of cold stratification often improves germination and seedling vigor.

Does Hairy Beardtongue attract hummingbirds? +

Yes. Its nectar-rich tubular flowers regularly attract hummingbirds along with many native bees and butterflies.

Can Hairy Beardtongue be grown in rock gardens? +

Absolutely. Hairy Beardtongue is especially well suited to rock gardens because it thrives in sunny locations with excellent drainage.

Is Hairy Beardtongue hardy in Canada? +

Yes. Its exceptional hardiness allows it to withstand Canadian winters when planted in well-drained soil.

How much maintenance does Hairy Beardtongue require? +

Once established, Hairy Beardtongue requires very little maintenance. Simply remove spent flower stems and maintain excellent drainage to ensure long-term vigor.

The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.