Penstemon digitalis is a species of flowering plant in the plantain family, Plantaginaceae. The flowers are white and are borne in summer. It is native to eastern Canada and the eastern and southeastern United States. 'Blackbeard' is an upright, compact, dark purple-leaved selection of beardtongue that features pink flowers held on sturdy, dark purple stems. The blooms are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. Mature plants will reach up to 3' tall with a 2' spread. 'Blackbeard' was selected as a seedling of Penstemon digitalis 'Pocahontas'.
Penstemons are very drought tolerant perennials that are easy to grow and are rarely bothered by insects or diseases. Water as needed.
Feed beardtongue plants once a year with an organic fertilizer, applied in the fall. Feeding these flowers with conventional bloom-boosting formula can promote too much growth and can shorten the life of the plants.
A soil composed of peat moss, loam, or sand, or any soil mixture with good drainage can be used. The soil should not be overly fertile.
Penstemons are short-lived perennials that can suffer in winter. To avoid losses, don't cut back plants until spring. Take summer cuttings to prevent winter losses.