Penstemon clutei | Sunset Crater Beardtongue | 5 Seeds
Specifications
| Return Shipping Will Be Paid By | Buyer |
| All Returns Accepted | Returns Accepted |
| Item Must Be Returned Within | 30 Days |
| Refund Will Be Given As | Money Back |
| Climate | Arid |
| Planting Time | 6 Weeks |
| Common Name | Beardtongue |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor & Outdoor |
| Color | Pink |
| Growth Habit | Clumping |
| Soil Type | Loam |
| Brand | Unbranded |
| Season Of Interest | Fall |
| Soil PH | Acidic |
| Type | Perennial Seeds |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Watering | Light |
| Genus | Penstemon |
| Sunlight | Full Sun |
| Features | Cold Resistant |
| Cultivating Difficulty | Moderate |
| Country/Region Of Manufacture | United States |
Penstemon clutei, commonly known as Sunset Crater beardtongue, is a rare perennial species native to northern Arizona, particularly around Sunset Crater in the San Francisco Peaks. It thrives in volcanic soils and open, rocky slopes at elevations of 6,000 to 8,000 feet. Growing 1 to 2 feet tall, this plant has slender stems with narrow, lance-shaped, silvery-green leaves. Its vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers are a striking pink to magenta, blooming from late spring to early summer. Penstemon clutei is highly attractive to hummingbirds and bees, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens. This species prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy or volcanic soils and is highly drought-tolerant once established. Due to its limited native range, it is considered an excellent choice for native and xeriscape gardens, especially in arid or mountainous regions. Zones 4-9 Germination Germinating Penstemon clutei seeds typically requires a cold stratification period to break dormancy. Seeds should be placed in a moist medium, such as sand or peat, and kept in a refrigerator at 34–40°F (1–4°C) for 4 to 6 weeks. After stratification, sow the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed-starting mix, as they need light to germinate. Keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature of around 65–70°F (18–21°C). Germination usually takes 2 to 6 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots. Before moving them outdoors, harden the seedlings off gradually. Penstemon clutei prefers full sun and thrives in well-drained, sandy, or volcanic soils, making it an ideal choice for arid and rocky garden environments.