Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus) does spread, but it does so steadily and not aggressively. This makes it a great choice for gardeners and landscapers who want a plant that will fill out an area without taking over the entire space. The spreading of this plant occurs through stolons, which are horizontal above-ground stems that send out roots and shoots to form new plants.
One of the great things about Penstemon strictus is that it’s a long-lived plant, meaning that once you establish it in your garden, it will stick around for many years to come. This can be especially beneficial if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that will provide beauty and interest to your landscape for an extended period of time.
In terms of ease of cultivation, Penstemon strictus is relatively easy to grow. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, but it tends to prefer well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may want to amend it with organic matter to improve drainage. This will help prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot and other problems.
When it comes to sunlight, Rocky Mountain Penstemon thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, it generally performs best when it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In my personal experience, I’ve found that this plant does exceptionally well in sunny spots, where it produces more abundant blooms and maintains a compact, bushy shape.
As for the spreading habit, Penstemon strictus forms large clumps over time. This can be a desirable characteristic if you’re looking to create a mass planting or fill in a bare area of your garden. However, it’s worth noting that this plant does not spread aggressively like some other groundcovers. Instead, it spreads steadily but not invasively, allowing you to easily control its growth and prevent it from taking over neighboring plants.
To maintain the spread of Penstemon strictus, you can simply allow the stolons to take root and develop into new plants. Alternatively, you can divide the clumps every few years to create more plants and maintain their health and vigor. Dividing the clumps also helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to reduced flowering and overall plant health.
Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus) is a fantastic choice for gardeners and landscapers who want a long-lived, easily grown plant that spreads steadily via stolons. Its ability to form large clumps over time allows for easy maintenance and control, making it a versatile and attractive addition to any garden or landscape.
