Calico Beardtongue (Penstemon calycosus) is a hardy native flower that brings vibrant color to spring and summer gardens across zones 5 and colder. This cultivar grows 24 to 36 inches tall with a spreading habit of 12 to 24 inches, making it a substantial presence in the border without overwhelming its neighbors. Its spiky flower spikes bloom prolifically from March through August, attracting pollinators while standing firm against deer pressure. Surface-sown seeds germinate in 30 to 60 days, rewarding patient gardeners with blooms the following season.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
5-5
36in H x 24in W
—
High
Hover over chart points for details
Calico Beardtongue flowers over an extended season, from early spring through late summer, providing months of color when many other perennials have finished their display. Its deer resistance and pollinator appeal make it a strategic choice for wildlife gardens and low-maintenance perennial borders. The plant thrives in full sun with moderate water needs once established, asking little in return for reliable, showy blooms.
This flower shines in perennial borders, pollinator gardens, and native plant landscapes. Its tall, airy spikes work well as a vertical accent among shorter plants or as a middle-layer filler in mixed beds. The long bloom window makes it valuable for extending color season in regions where spring and early summer flowers might otherwise fade quickly.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Stratify seeds for 30 days by mixing them with damp sand or vermiculite, placing the mixture in a plastic bag, and refrigerating at 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Check regularly for germination and maintain lightly moist conditions throughout the chilling period. Transplant seedlings as they emerge, rather than waiting until all have sprouted. After stratification, sow into containers under bright light and expect germination within 30 to 60 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last spring frost once they've developed their first true leaves. Harden off gradually over one to two weeks by exposing plants to increasing periods of outdoor conditions. Space plants one inch apart initially in a prepared nursery bed, understanding they will expand significantly as they mature. Soil temperature should be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit at transplant time.
Direct sow in earliest spring as soon as soil is workable, or in fall before the first frost into a finely-prepared nursery bed. Sow into very well-drained soil to minimize disease pressure.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming through summer. In late fall after the first hard frost, cut back remaining stems to ground level to tidy the plant and prepare it for winter dormancy.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.