White Beardtongue
Penstemon digitalis
White Beardtongue is a showy native perennial with spikes of white tubular flowers accented by purple nectar guides. Its long blooming period and adaptability make it perfect for pollinator gardens and sustainable landscapes.
Plantaginaceae (Plantain family)
Late spring to early summer (May-July), blooms for up to three months
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: astrantias and heleniums also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The genus name Penstemon comes from the Latin paene (almost) and Greek stemon (stamen), referring to the fifth sterile stamen that characterizes the genus. The common name "beardtongue" refers to the hairy protrusion on the sterile stamen inside the flower, which increases pollination efficiency during bee visits. Purple nectar guides on the lower lip direct pollinators to the nectar reward. The cultivar "Husker Red" with burgundy foliage was developed at the University of Nebraska and has won multiple horticultural awards.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sun for best flowering)
Water
Adaptable; tolerates dry, moist, or occasionally wet conditions; thrives in rain gardens with good drainage
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile, Loamy, Clay loam, Sandy, Adaptable to various types
Expert Growing Tips
Extremely adaptable and low-maintenance once established
Excellent for urban sites with compact or challenging soils
Tolerates heat, humidity, and occasional drought
Deadhead spent flower spikes to prevent excessive self-seeding
Leave seed heads through winter for visual interest and bird food
Cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges
Semi-evergreen basal foliage provides winter interest
Deer and rabbit resistant
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Perennial borders and mixed beds
- Rain gardens and bioswales
- Pollinator and butterfly gardens
- Native plant gardens
- Meadows and naturalized areas
- Roadside plantings
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the White Beardtongue
Why is it called Foxglove Beardtongue?
It is called Foxglove Beardtongue because its flowers resemble those of the foxglove (Digitalis), though they are not related. "Beardtongue" refers to the hairy sterile stamen inside the flower that looks like a tiny tongue.
Does White Beardtongue attract hummingbirds?
Yes, White Beardtongue attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The tubular flowers and purple nectar guides help direct pollinators to the nectar inside.
Is Penstemon digitalis deer resistant?
Yes, White Beardtongue is generally deer and rabbit resistant due to its bitter-tasting leaves, making it a good choice for gardens with browsing wildlife.
What is the difference between Penstemon digitalis and Husker Red?
Husker Red is a cultivar of Penstemon digitalis with burgundy-red foliage in spring that gradually turns green in summer. It has the same white flowers but offers additional ornamental interest with its colorful leaves.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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