Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus)

Hairy Beardtongue (Penstemon hirsutus) 

Hairy Beardtongue is one of the earliest blooming prairie perennials, sending up soft spikes of pale lavender to muted pink flowers in late spring to early summer just as many gardens are still waking up. The tubular blooms, lightly fuzzy and delicate-looking, rise above a compact mound of narrow, slightly hairy foliage. It brings subtle structure and fine texture to the front of a planting or woven throughout in drifts. 

Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to light shade
Soil: Dry to medium, well-drained soils; prefers sandy or rocky conditions
Height: 1–2 feet
Spread: 1–1.5 feet
Zones: 3–8
Bloom time: Late May through June

Wildlife Value
Attracts early-emerging native bees, especially long-tongued bees and bumblebees, as well as hummingbirds. The tubular blooms are rich in nectar and provide an early-season food source. The plant's low, clumping form also offers shelter for small insects and beneficial ground-dwellers.

Blooms Alongside:
Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum), Pasque Flower (Anemone patens var. wolfgangiana), Wild Lupine (Lupinus perennis), Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea), Prairie alumroot (Heuchera Richardsonii)