Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ is a perennial known for its elegant white blooms. It attracts beneficial wildlife, making it a popular choice for many gardens due to its consistent flowering.
Understanding Penstemon ‘White Bedder’
Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ features pure white, bell-shaped flowers that emerge from delicate pink buds. These blooms grow on upright stems, complemented by glossy, lance-shaped, dark green foliage. The plant typically reaches 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) tall with a spread of 1 to 1.5 feet (30-45 cm), blooming from early summer into autumn. This variety is generally hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 10, though some sources indicate hardiness from Zone 5, with protection needed in colder areas. Its nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, contributing to garden biodiversity. Furthermore, Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ is known for its deer resistance.
Planting and Growing Conditions
Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. While it tolerates light shade in hotter climates, full sun encourages the best performance. Well-draining soil is crucial, as soggy conditions can lead to root rot; sandy or loamy types are preferred. Incorporating coarse grit or compost can improve drainage in heavier soils. Penstemons are not overly particular about soil pH, generally performing well in acidic, neutral, or slightly alkaline conditions.
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early autumn. Ensure 1 to 1.5 feet (30-45 cm) spacing between plants for good air circulation, which helps prevent disease.
Ongoing Care for ‘White Bedder’
Once established, Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ is relatively low-maintenance and exhibits good drought tolerance. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Penstemons do not require heavy fertilization; over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. If soil fertility is low, apply a light balanced fertilizer in fall or after the first flush of blooms, avoiding high-nitrogen formulas.
Pruning is a valuable practice to maintain plant health and encourage continuous blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage rebloom and extend the flowering season. In late winter or early spring, cut back plants to about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) above the ground to promote new growth. For colder climates, apply a dry mulch around the crown in autumn for winter protection.
Common Issues and Solutions
While generally robust, Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ can encounter a few common issues. Root rot is the most prevalent problem, often resulting from poorly draining soil or overwatering. Powdery mildew, characterized by white powdery growth on leaves, can occur in humid conditions or areas with poor air circulation; improve air circulation through proper spacing and avoiding overhead watering.
Pests like aphids and slugs may occasionally affect the plant; aphids can be managed with insecticidal soap, and slugs with hand-picking or traps. A lack of blooms can be attributed to insufficient sunlight or improper pruning. If plants become leggy, a significant cutback in early spring can rejuvenate them.
Using ‘White Bedder’ in Your Garden
Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ offers versatile landscaping applications. Its upright habit and clear white flowers make it an excellent choice for borders, providing vertical interest and contrasting color. It also performs well in rock gardens, cottage gardens, mass plantings, and containers. Penstemon ‘White Bedder’ pairs well with other plants that share similar growing requirements, such as Salvia, Echinacea (coneflowers), Rudbeckia (black-eyed Susans), ornamental grasses, and Lavender.