Parachute Beardtongue ⚠️ Threatened

Penstemon debilis

Native to:
United States

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Plantaginaceae
Genus:
Penstemon
Species:
Penstemon debilis
USDA Symbol:
PEDE22

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
20 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul
Bloom Colors:
white, lavender

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
Native to shale barrens; prefers rocky slopes

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Requires light for germination; sow on surface.