Genus guide
Penstemon — 31 species
Part of the Snapdragons & foxglove relatives family (Plantaginaceae)
Penstemon (beardtongue) is a large North American genus of tubular-flowered perennials and subshrubs, ranging from Foxglove beardtongue of eastern woodlands to Scarlet bugler and Rocky Mountain penstemon in western landscapes. All prefer full sun and sharply drained, lean soil; once established they are notably drought-tolerant and suffer in wet or clay soils. Toxicity varies across the genus — most species are considered low-risk, but some Penstemon have been associated with selenium accumulation under certain soil conditions. Check individual species before planting in pet-accessible areas, and consult a vet if ingestion is suspected.
All Penstemon species we cover
- Arkansas Beardtongue
- Beardtongue 'Husker Red'
- Bradbury's Beardtongue
- Buckley's Beardtongue
- Eaton's Firecracker
- Foothill Penstemon 'Margarita BOP'
- Foxglove beardtongue
- Front Range Beardtongue
- Hairy Beardtongue
- Large-Flowered Beardtongue
- Pale Beardtongue
- Penstemon 'Garnet'
- Penstemon 'Husker Red'
- Penstemon 'Raven'
- Penstemon 'Sour Grapes'
- Penstemon 'Stapleford Gem'
- Penstemon barbatus 'Rondo'
- Penstemon heterophyllus 'Electric Blue'
- Pineleaf Penstemon
- Prairie Beardtongue
- Prairie Penstemon
- Rocky Mountain penstemon
- Rocky Mountain Penstemon
- Scarlet bugler
- Sidebells Beardtongue
- Sidebells Penstemon
- Small's Beardtongue
- Smooth Beardtongue
- Tube Beardtongue
- White Beardtongue
- White-flowered Beardtongue
Penstemon — frequently asked questions
Are Penstemon plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Penstemon are not pet-safe. Of the 31 Penstemon species in the Growli library, 23 (74%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 8 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Penstemon plants need?
Most Penstemon do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Penstemon easy to care for?
Some Penstemon suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Penstemon varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 31 Penstemon species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Penstemon, the rest follow closely.
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