Penstemon Laura

Penstemon Laura

Why Buy Me?

• Bees love this plant
• Large tubular shaped flowers
• Add height to your borders
• Easy to grow

Growing Conditions

Light:
Prefers full sun for best flowering and compact growth. Can tolerate light shade but flowering may be reduced.

Soil:
Grows best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils.

Exposure:
Thrives in sheltered to exposed sites. Hardy across most of the UK, though some protection may be needed in colder regions during severe winters.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderately drought-tolerant once established. Benefits from watering during dry spells.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in spring or early autumn for good root establishment.

Spacing:
Space plants 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart. Mature height is about 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) with a similar spread.

Watering & Fertilisation:
Water regularly during the first season and in dry periods thereafter. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

Mulching & Pruning:
Apply mulch in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Cut back hard after flowering to maintain a neat, bushy habit.

Propagation:
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in early summer or by division. Seed propagation possible but less common for named cultivars.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New foliage emerges fresh and green.

Summer:
Produces attractive violet-purple tubular flowers with lighter throats from early to late summer, attracting pollinators including bees and hummingbirds.

Autumn:
Flowering may continue into early autumn under favourable conditions. Foliage remains neat.

Winter:
Deciduous; dies back in winter but regenerates in spring.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds (where applicable), aiding pollinator gardens.

Garden Use:
Ideal for borders, wildlife gardens, and containers. Provides a splash of cool purple colour and elegant flower spikes during summer.

Companion Plants:
Works well with:

• Lavender

• Salvia

• Echinacea

• Nepeta

• Rudbeckia

Pairs nicely with plants offering contrasting flower colours and textures.

Transform your home and garden with the Penstemon Laura, a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.