Quick answer: Eastern gray beardtongue (Penstemon canescens) is native to 13 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seeds, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Halpaugh, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Dry, sandy |
| Bloom | Jun-Jul |
| Height | 16-32 in |
| Wildlife value | Special value to native bees |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Eastern gray beardtongue
Where is Eastern gray beardtongue native?
Eastern gray beardtongue (Penstemon canescens) is native to 13 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Eastern gray beardtongue bloom?
Eastern gray beardtongue blooms Jun-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Eastern gray beardtongue need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Dry. Soil: Dry, sandy. Mature height: 16-32 in.
Is Eastern gray beardtongue good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Special value to native bees.
Is Eastern gray beardtongue deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Eastern gray beardtongue is deer-resistant, drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Eastern gray beardtongue seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Penstemon canescens on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Eastern gray beardtongue.
- Threadleaf coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata
- Sweet-fern Comptonia peregrina
- Dwarf crested iris Iris cristata
- Hairy beardtongue Penstemon hirsutus
- Lanceleaf coreopsis Coreopsis lanceolata
- Dwarf larkspur Delphinium tricorne
Also listed under
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