What a treat it is when Hairy Penstemon, Penstemon hirsutus, comes into bloom. In late spring and summer, 2′ hairy stems are adorned with dangling bells, violet on top with a white bottom lip. Each hairy flower is intricately veined with purple. A real show off, this U.S. native perennial produces multitudes of blossoms. Hairy Beardtongue is a stunning addition to any garden. Hairy Beardtongue is easy to grow. It’s not fussy about soil and light and will even grow in shade. However, more sun will produce more flowers.

Use in perennial and cottage gardens. A top choice for cutting and pollinator gardens. Attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other important pollinators. Hairy Penstemon is the host plant for the Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly, a butterfly found in Missouri and Illinois.

Plant in average soil in full sun, part shade, or shade. The plant will benefit from compost added to the soil when planting. Although the plant will grow in shade, it will produce the most blossoms in full sun locations.