Tall White Beardtongue, PA Ecotype

Penstemon digitalis (Tall White Beardtongue) is an erect-growing, clump-forming perennial wildflower that, under ideal conditions, grows to 4.9 ft., but more typically to 4 ft. Tall White Beardtongue blooms in late spring/early summer with white open-mouthed flowers. Penstemon digitalis is a heavy nectar producer that attracts hummingbirds, bumblebees, and other pollinators. Honey collected from a monoculture of Tall White Beardtongue is very light in color with an aftertaste reminiscent of cotton candy. Penstemon digitalis has a broad distribution range, with natural populations found from Vermont and South Carolina to Texas and South Dakota. Tall White Beardtongue typically grows in mesic to dry soils and partial shade to full sun. However, we have observed it growing in wet soilsl. Natural populations of Penstemon digitalis occur along roadsides, wood’s edges, meadows, and old fields. The large rosettes of this species reduce soil erosion by protecting the soil from the full force of rain. Deer typically do not browse Tall White Beardtongue. With its showy flowers and environmental tolerances, we use Penstemon digitalis in pollinator-friendly steep slope and upland meadow mixes, as well as in honeybee pasture mixes. Penstemon digitalis is a member of the figword (Scrophulariaceae) family.