Quick answer: Eastern smooth beardtongue (Penstemon laevigatus) is native to 15 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Michael Wolf (Webseite), 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 | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium |
| Soil | Organic |
| Bloom | May-Jul |
| Height | Up to 4 ft |
| 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: Live plant via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Eastern smooth beardtongue
Where is Eastern smooth beardtongue native?
Eastern smooth beardtongue (Penstemon laevigatus) is native to 15 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 smooth beardtongue bloom?
Eastern smooth beardtongue blooms May-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Eastern smooth beardtongue need?
Light: Sun. Water: Medium. Soil: Organic. Mature height: Up to 4 ft.
Is Eastern smooth beardtongue good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Special value to native bees.
Is Eastern smooth beardtongue deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Eastern smooth beardtongue is deer-resistant.
Where can I buy real Eastern smooth beardtongue seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as live plant that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Penstemon laevigatus on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Eastern smooth beardtongue.
- Threadleaf coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata
- New York ironweed Vernonia noveboracensis
- Adam's needle Yucca filamentosa
- Brown-eyed Susan Rudbeckia triloba
- Orange coneflower Rudbeckia fulgida
- Eastern gray beardtongue Penstemon canescens
Also listed under
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