Penstemon montanus ssp. montanus | Mountain Penstemon | 10 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 | Mountain Penstemon |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor & Outdoor |
| Color | Blue |
| Growth Habit | Clumping |
| Soil Type | Peat |
| Brand | Unbranded |
| Season Of Interest | Spring |
| 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 montanus ssp. montanus, commonly known as mountain penstemon, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the mountainous regions of western North America, particularly the Rocky Mountains. It typically grows in open meadows, forest edges, and rocky slopes at elevations between 5,000 to 10,000 feet. The plant reaches heights of 12 to 24 inches, producing slender, upright stems with lance-shaped, toothed leaves. In late spring to early summer, it showcases spikes of tubular, lavender to deep blue flowers that attract pollinators, especially bees and hummingbirds. This species is drought-tolerant, thriving in well-drained soils, and is often used in wildflower gardens for its hardiness and vibrant blooms. Zones 4-8 Germination The seeds of Penstemon montanus ssp. montanus require specific conditions for successful germination. They benefit from cold stratification, which mimics the natural winter dormancy period the seeds would experience in the wild. To stratify, the seeds should be placed in moist sand or soil and refrigerated for 30 to 90 days at temperatures around 35-40°F (2-4°C). After stratification, they can be sown on the surface of well-draining soil, as they need light to germinate. Ideal germination temperatures are between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Germination may take 2 to 4 weeks, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged during this period.