Foxglove Beardtongue is a reliable and elegant workhorse of the native garden, loved for its tall spikes of pristine white flowers and exceptional adaptability. Reaching 3 to 5 feet in height, this perennial produces numerous tubular, foxglove-like blossoms in late spring and early summer that seem to glow in the sun. Its smooth, deep green foliage often turns attractive shades of burgundy in the fall, providing multi-season interest. Native to a wide area of the eastern and central United States, it is found in prairies, open woods, and fields. This species is a pollinator magnet, attracting everything from hummingbirds to specialized bees and butterflies. It is one of the easiest Penstemons to grow, as it tolerates a wide range of conditions, including clay soils and occasional drought, though it prefers full sun and medium-moisture sites. Whether used in a formal border or a wild meadow, Foxglove Beardtongue offers a dependable and beautiful source of nectar that supports a thriving backyard ecosystem.

Quick facts

• Height: 3–5 ft
• Sun: Full to Partial
• Soil moisture: Medium to Medium-Dry
• Bloom time: Jun–Jul (White)
• Life cycle: Perennial
• Native range: Native to 36 states, including Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska

See the full growing guide and county range map for Foxglove Beardtongue