Penstemon 'Sour Grapes' M. Fish , Penstemon 'True Sour Grapes', Beardtongue 'Sour Grapes', Penstemon 'Sour Grape', Penstemon hartwegii 'Sour Grapes'
Penstemon ‘Sour Grapes’ doesn’t disappoint with its unusual name or its unique aesthetic. This perennial plant, known for its distinct, dusky grape-purple flowers, doesn’t bear the typical Penstemon look, offering instead a more exotic, almost tropical appearance.
Native: This variety isn’t a native species but rather a cultivated hybrid developed for its enhanced ornamental appeal and garden performance, a testament to the versatility and adaptability of the Penstemon genus.
Plant Type and Habit: ‘Sour Grapes’ is a semi-evergreen perennial with an upright, bushy clump-forming habit. Its growth pattern is moderately compact, with the plant’s energy devoted to showcasing a lavish display of flowers.
Size: ‘Sour Grapes’ maintains a manageable size, generally reaching about 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) in height and spreading approximately 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) wide. This controlled growth makes it a suitable candidate for various garden applications.
Flowers: The flowers are the main event, with their intriguing grape-purple coloration that seems to change under different light conditions, sometimes appearing more blue or gray. Their tubular shape and white-marked throats are a beacon for pollinators and a visual delight for gardeners.
Bloom Time: Expect a spectacular show from early summer into fall, especially in milder climates or with adequate deadheading.
Foliage: The foliage presents a glossy, bright green that forms a lovely contrast with the dark-toned flowers. Leaves are lance-shaped and arranged oppositely on the stem, contributing to the plant’s overall lush appearance.
Uses: ‘Sour Grapes’ is versatile, suitable for border plantings, container gardens, rock gardens, and as part of pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Award: Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
Hardiness: This plant boasts commendable hardiness, capable of thriving in USDA zones 7-10.
Pollinators: Penstemon is attractive to various pollinators, especially bees, and hummingbirds, drawn to their nectar-rich flowers.
Toxicity: Penstemons are not known to be toxic to humans or pets. However, it’s always prudent to prevent ingestion of any non-edible plants.
Deer and Rabbit: An added bonus is its resistance to deer and rabbits, a characteristic attributed to the texture and taste of the foliage that these animals generally find unappealing.
Drought: Once established, ‘Sour Grapes’ shows a good level of drought tolerance. While it prefers consistent moisture levels, it can endure short periods of dry conditions, a boon for gardeners in more arid climates.
Invasiveness: ‘Sour Grapes’ is not known for being invasive. It’s a well-behaved garden resident that stays within its allocated space, making it a reliable and predictable perennial option.
Light: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sun per day). Tolerates light shade.
Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial. Penstemons prefer rocky or sandy lean soils rather than rich garden loam. Avoid overly moist, poorly drained soils.
Water: Water well until plants are established. Once established, Penstemons tolerate some drought. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Over-watering or wet soils can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: Penstemon plants generally do not require heavy fertilization and can thrive in relatively lean soil conditions. However, providing them with a light application of an organic fertilizer in the fall can help boost their growth and flowering potential.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Cut back plants in late autumn or early spring to promote vigorous growth.
Mulching: Mulching Penstemon can help regulate ground temperature and suppress weed growth. Choose a mulch that does not hold water. Use organic materials like shredded bark, compost, or pine straw. Avoiding direct contact with the stems to prevent rot and pest issues.
Propagation: Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer.
Pests and Diseases: No serious pest or disease issues, but watch for slugs, snails, and nematodes. Fungal diseases can occur in overly wet conditions; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent issues like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Rust can cause small, rust-colored pustules on leaves and stems, leading to defoliation and stunted growth.
Hardiness |
7 - 10 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
7 - 10 |
Climate Zones | 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Plantaginaceae |
Genus | Penstemon |
Common names | Penstemon, Beardtongue |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late), |
Height | 2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm) |
Spread | 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spacing | 18" - 24" (50cm - 60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Plant of Merit, Semi-Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought, Deer |
Attracts | Bees, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |
Hardiness |
7 - 10 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
7 - 10 |
Climate Zones | 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Plantaginaceae |
Genus | Penstemon |
Common names | Penstemon, Beardtongue |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Summer (Early, Mid, Late), |
Height | 2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm) |
Spread | 1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm) |
Spacing | 18" - 24" (50cm - 60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Plant of Merit, Semi-Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought, Deer |
Attracts | Bees, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |
How many Penstemon ‘Sour Grapes’ (Beardtongue) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
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Penstemon ‘Sour Grapes’ (Beardtongue) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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