Pale Beardtongue
Penstemon pallidus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Penstemon pallidus (Pale Beardtongue) is a native wildflower blooming May through July across eastern and midwestern United States. This drought-tolerant perennial attracts bees and butterflies with its tubular white flowers.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, GA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Pale beardtongue is a compact native perennial that forms neat clumps of narrow green foliage. It produces delicate tubular white to pale pink flowers on upright stems from May through July, creating an elegant display in sunny gardens.
Growing Pale Beardtongue
Grow Pale Beardtongue in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pale Beardtongue is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter leaving bare ground
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are excellent for native bees and butterflies, providing nectar throughout late spring and early summer.
Common questions
- When does Penstemon pallidus bloom?
- Pale Beardtongue typically blooms from May through July, producing clusters of tubular white flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Penstemon pallidus?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Pale Beardtongue, drawn to its nectar-rich tubular flowers.
- Where is Penstemon pallidus native?
- Pale Beardtongue is native to much of the eastern and midwestern United States, from Maine to Georgia and west to Kansas and Minnesota.
- What growing conditions does Penstemon pallidus prefer?
- This native wildflower thrives in full sun to partial sun with low to moderate water needs, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant gardens.
- Is Pale Beardtongue HOA-friendly?
- Pale Beardtongue is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Pale Beardtongue? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz