Larchleaf Beardtongue: A Hidden Gem for Rocky Mountain Native Gardens
If you’re a native plant enthusiast looking for something truly special for your Rocky Mountain garden, let me introduce you to larchleaf beardtongue (Penstemon laricifolius exilifolius). This lesser-known perennial is one of those plants that makes you feel like you’re in on a well-kept gardening secret.
What Makes Larchleaf Beardtongue Special?
Larchleaf beardtongue is a native forb—basically a non-woody perennial that dies back to the ground each winter and returns fresh each spring. As a true native of the American West, this plant has spent centuries adapting to the challenging conditions of Colorado and Wyoming’s high country.
This species is endemic to just two states: Colorado and Wyoming, making it a true regional specialty. When you plant larchleaf beardtongue, you’re not just adding another flower to your garden—you’re preserving a piece of Rocky Mountain heritage.
A Word About Rarity
Here’s something important to know: larchleaf beardtongue has a Global Conservation Status of S4T3Q, which indicates some level of conservation concern. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t grow it—quite the opposite! Growing native plants helps preserve genetic diversity. However, it does mean you should source your plants or seeds responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries rather than collecting from wild populations.
Why Your Garden (and Local Wildlife) Will Love It
Like other members of the Penstemon family, larchleaf beardtongue likely produces tubular flowers that are absolute magnets for hummingbirds and native bees. These flowers probably bloom in lovely shades of purple or blue—classic beardtongue colors that add a sophisticated touch to any native garden.
The larchleaf part of its common name gives us a clue about its foliage, which likely resembles the needle-like leaves of larch trees. This unique texture can add interesting contrast to your garden design.
Perfect Garden Situations
Larchleaf beardtongue is ideal for:
- Native plant gardens focusing on Colorado and Wyoming flora
- Rock gardens and xeriscaping projects
- Pollinator gardens, especially those designed for high-altitude conditions
- Naturalized areas where you want to recreate Rocky Mountain meadow conditions
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific growing information for this subspecies is limited, we can make educated assumptions based on its Rocky Mountain heritage and Penstemon family traits:
Sunlight: Probably prefers full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining soil is likely essential—think rocky, sandy, or loamy conditions
Water: Once established, probably quite drought tolerant
Hardiness: Given its Colorado and Wyoming distribution, likely hardy in USDA zones 4-7
Planting and Care Tips
Since larchleaf beardtongue is adapted to challenging mountain conditions, the key to success is probably mimicking its natural environment:
- Ensure excellent drainage—soggy soil is likely the kiss of death for this plant
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Water regularly the first season to help establish roots, then reduce watering
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as mountain natives often prefer lean soils
- Allow the plant to go dormant naturally in fall
The Bottom Line
Larchleaf beardtongue might not be the easiest plant to find, but for native plant enthusiasts in Colorado and Wyoming, it’s absolutely worth seeking out. You’ll be growing a true regional native that supports local pollinators while adding unique beauty to your landscape.
Just remember to source your plants responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries. By growing this special beardtongue, you’re not just gardening—you’re participating in conservation.
