Small-flower penstemon (Penstemon procerus, Edinburgh New Philos. J. 7:348. 1829)

Family: Plantaginaceae

Author: Dougl. ex Graham

Bibliography: Edinburgh New Philos. J. 7:348. 1829

Year: 1829

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Penstemon

Vegetable: False

Observations: Alaska to Utah

Description

Penstemon procerus, commonly known as the Small-flower penstemon, is a striking perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Plantaginaceae family. This enchanting species was first detailed in the Edinburgh New Philosophical Journal in the year 1829 by Dougl. ex Graham.

The Small-flower penstemon is found across a vast geographical range, spanning from the serene landscapes of Alaska to the arid regions of Utah. Such a broad distribution is a testament to its adaptability and resilience in various environmental conditions, from chillier northern climates to warmer temperate zones.

Characterized by its petite yet captivating blooms, Penstemon procerus adds a splash of color and beauty to its natural habitat. The flowers, though small, are intricately formed and held in high esteem by botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. Often cultivated for its ornamental value, the plant brings vibrancy to gardens and natural settings with its charming inflorescences.

The ecological role of Penstemon procerus is also significant, serving as a nectar source for various pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds. This interaction underscores the plant’s contribution to biodiversity and the overall health of the ecosystems where it thrives.

In summary, the Small-flower penstemon stands out not only for its decorative appeal but also for its ecological importance across a wide range of North American terrains. Its historical documentation and continued presence highlight the enduring allure and significance of this delicate yet robust species.

Common Names

Eng: littleflower penstemon, small-flower penstemon, small-flowered beardtongue, little-flowered beardtongue, pincushion beardtongue, slender blue beardtongue, slender blue penstemon, small-flowered penstemon
Fra: penstémon élancé, pentstémon élancé
En: Small-flower penstemon, PINCUSHION BEARDTONGUE, Littleflower penstemon, Small-flowered beardtongue, Little-flowered beardtongue, Slender blue beardtongue, Slender blue penstemon, Small-flowered penstemon
Fr: Penstémon élancé, Pentstémon élancé

Synonyms

• Penstemon procerus subsp. typicus (D.D.Keck)
• Penstemon confertus var. procerus ((Douglas ex Graham) Coville)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Sep 23, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 24, 2021 by Danielle Mccloy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 3, 2022 by Dani Bastian (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 30, 2021 by jenifer Bow-Wilson (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2021 by Peter Nelson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 16, 2022 by k8esix (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 3, 2022 by Dani Bastian (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 24, 2020 by michelle tanguay (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 11, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 11, 2015 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 18, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 21, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3171320)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:808248-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Penstemon procerus Douglas ex Graham)

Specifications

Growth form>: Single Crown

Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Rapid

Growth

Ph maximum: 7.5

Ph minimum: 6.0