Crandall’s Beardtongue: A Rare Colorado Native Worth Knowing
If you’re a gardener who loves discovering hidden gems among native plants, Crandall’s beardtongue (Penstemon crandallii procumbens) might just capture your heart. This low-growing perennial is one of Colorado’s special botanical treasures, though finding it for your garden might prove to be quite the adventure.
What Makes This Plant Special
Crandall’s beardtongue is a prostrate form of the beloved penstemon family, meaning it grows low and spreads along the ground rather than reaching skyward. As a native forb herb, it’s perfectly adapted to Colorado’s challenging growing conditions, having evolved without the woody stems of shrubs but with the staying power of a true perennial.
This little beauty belongs to the classic beardtongue family, known for their distinctive tubular flowers that seem tailor-made for hummingbirds and native bees. The procumbens in its name tells you everything you need to know about its growth habit – it’s a sprawler that hugs the ground, making it perfect for rock gardens and challenging slopes.
Where You’ll Find It Growing Wild
Here’s where things get interesting (and a bit challenging for gardeners): Penstemon crandallii procumbens is found exclusively in Colorado. This narrow geographic distribution makes it a true regional specialty – think of it as Colorado’s botanical equivalent of a local craft brewery that hasn’t expanded beyond state lines yet.
A Word About Rarity
Before you start planning where to plant this beauty, there’s something important to know. Crandall’s beardtongue has a conservation status that suggests it’s not exactly common in the wild. If you’re determined to grow this special plant, please make sure you source it responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate their stock rather than collecting from wild populations.
Garden Appeal and Design Role
If you can get your hands on this rare gem, Crandall’s beardtongue shines in several garden situations:
- Rock gardens where its low, spreading habit creates natural-looking drifts
- Alpine and xeriscape gardens that celebrate drought-tolerant natives
- Slopes and challenging areas where erosion control meets beauty
- Native plant collections for serious Colorado flora enthusiasts
Its prostrate growth habit makes it an excellent groundcover alternative to more common options, especially in areas where you want something uniquely Coloradan.
Growing Conditions and Care
Like most Colorado natives, Crandall’s beardtongue likely thrives in conditions that would challenge many garden plants:
- Full sun exposure – this isn’t a shade lover
- Well-draining soil (excellent drainage is probably non-negotiable)
- Minimal water once established – think drought-tolerant not water-loving
- Rocky or sandy soil conditions that mimic its native habitat
Based on its Colorado origins, it’s likely hardy in USDA zones 4-7, handling cold winters like a champ while preferring hot, dry summers.
Benefits for Wildlife
While specific wildlife data for this subspecies is limited, penstemons are generally fantastic for pollinators. You can expect Crandall’s beardtongue to attract:
- Hummingbirds drawn to those classic tubular flowers
- Native bees that have co-evolved with western penstemons
- Beneficial insects that support garden ecosystem health
The Bottom Line
Crandall’s beardtongue is one of those plants that makes you feel like you’re in on a wonderful secret. It’s perfectly suited for Colorado gardeners who want something truly special and native to their state. However, its rarity means this isn’t a plant for impulse buying – if you find it available, make sure it’s from a responsible source that’s helping conserve rather than deplete wild populations.
For most gardeners, exploring other more readily available Colorado native penstemons might be a more practical choice while still supporting local ecosystems. But for those who love botanical treasures and have a commitment to conservation-minded gardening, Crandall’s beardtongue represents the kind of plant that makes native gardening such a rewarding adventure.
