Onyx and Pearls™ Beardtongue (Penstemon)

Onyx and Pearls™ is a named beardtongue with near-black foliage and pale lavender flowers whose white interiors make the blooms appear nearly white from a distance. Walters Gardens identifies the cultivar as Penstemon 'Onyx and Pearls' (PP32613), a taller, fuller selection with a 42-inch height and a 38–42-inch spread. ## Growing conditions Grow it in full sun in average or fertile soil. The Walters Gardens profile lists low to average water needs, describes the plant as tolerant of heat and humidity, and notes that penstemons are drought tolerant once established. Its early- to midsummer flowers attract hummingbirds and bees. See the [Walters Gardens Onyx and Pearls profile](https://www.waltersgardens.com/variety.php?ID=PENOP) for the cultivar description and growing characteristics. ## Landscape use Use this upright perennial as a border accent, in a mass planting, or for cut flowers. The contrasting foliage and pale flowers stand out against green-leaved companions. ## Maintenance After flowering, remove spent stems if a tidier appearance is wanted. In spring, cut back dead stems as new growth begins, and avoid keeping the soil persistently wet.