Violet - Beardtongue (Penstemon)

Phoenix Violet is a compact, upright Penstemon hartwegii color selection with purple, lavender and violet flowers. Syngenta lists it as Phoenix product 70004268, flowering from mid-spring through summer and reaching 40–50 cm in garden height; its listed garden width is 12–14 cm. [Syngenta Flowers](https://www.syngentaflowers.com/emea/product/flower/70004268) ## Garden use The close, upright habit suits containers, small borders and places where the violet flower color can be appreciated at eye level. Syngenta marks the selection pollinator-friendly and lists sun to shade exposure. For penstemons generally, the Royal Horticultural Society recommends a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil and advises choosing varieties to match local winter conditions, since hardiness differs among kinds. [RHS growing guide](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/penstemons/growing-guide) ## Growing conditions Prevent standing water around the crown, especially in winter. Water during extended dry spells while establishing and when container soil dries quickly. ## Maintenance Remove faded flower stems when useful. Cut back old stems to healthy low shoots in spring after severe frost risk has eased, and maintain free drainage around the crown.