Cistus Nursery
*RETAIL - Penstemon 'Blackbird'
*RETAIL - Penstemon 'Blackbird'
One of the most recognizable of the P. mexicana hybrids, this lovely 4 ft wide x 2 ft tall plant, with great purple to nearly black flowers. One of the most easygoing of the garden Penstemons. For us, nearly continually flowering, though frost below the low 20ºs F will knock it back to its green growth rosettes and temperatures of 10ºF for any length of time sets it back severely. So best if mulched in colder climates or cuttings taken in fall. Full sun to lightly dappled shade; drought tolerant though at its most fantabulous with even summer water and only moderate nutrients. Root hardy in upper USDA zone 7.
Plantaginaceae
*THESE SIZES ONLY AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN OUR RETAIL NURSERY
Planting Recommendations
Planting Recommendations
Under most conditions, planting directly into the garden is best. Keep in mind, that in our care, plants have been protected from intense sunlight and drying winds and would therefore require sheltered transition time in order to acclimate to such conditions in your garden.
All plants going into containers (rather than in the ground) should be potted immediately in well-drained potting mix and watered well to ensure the soil is fully moistened with no air pockets. Succulent plants abide by different rules (**see below).
Plants held for later planting are best stored in a cool greenhouse or a well-lit garage or basement, rather than in your house where conditions are likely too warm and dry.
Those plants needing time to acclimate can be set out in pots and provided some shade and shelter for the first week to allow for a successful transition.
**For cacti and other succulents, we recommend using a soil mix of less than 30% organic matter, preferably a 2-1 blend of cactus/succulent potting soil and pumice, perlite or lava rock. These plants are sensitive to prolonged heavy moisture, especially in cool/winter conditions. Keep this in mind when watering them for the first time. It is better to leave them dry in lower temperatures.