Penstemon
Penstemon, or beardtongue, carries slender spikes of tubular, bell-shaped flowers in jewel and pastel tones from purple and pink to soft white and blue. Florists value it as a graceful, garden-style line flower that lends a loose, cottage feel to bouquets and seasonal arrangements. Its airy spires mix beautifully with roses, dahlias and other garden blooms in summer designs. With its natural, meadow-like charm, penstemon is a lovely choice for relaxed, romantic wedding work.
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | North America |
| Peak season | June, July |
| Availability | June, July, August, September |
| Stem length | 30–70 cm |
| Vase life | 5–8 days |
| Colors | purple, pink, red, white, blue, lavender |
| Price tier | mid |
Cut stems on an angle and place in clean, cool water with flower food, stripping any leaves that would sit below the waterline. Penstemon is a thirsty, slightly delicate stem, so recut and refresh the water every couple of days. Keep it cool and out of direct sun, and remove faded lower florets to keep the spike looking fresh.
- •Cut stems at an angle
- •Use clean, cool water with flower food
- •Strip lower foliage below the waterline
- •Recut and refresh water every few days
- •Remove faded lower florets
- •Keep cool and out of direct sun
