Mt. Washington Beardtongue: A Rare New Mexican Treasure for Specialized Gardens
If you’re the type of gardener who gets excited about discovering rare native plants, Mt. Washington beardtongue (Penstemon pseudoparvus) might just capture your imagination. This little-known penstemon is one of New Mexico’s botanical gems, though it comes with some important considerations for home gardeners.
What Makes Mt. Washington Beardtongue Special?
Mt. Washington beardtongue is a perennial forb – essentially a non-woody flowering plant that comes back year after year. As part of the beloved penstemon family, it likely produces the characteristic tubular flowers that make these plants so attractive to hummingbirds and native pollinators. True to its name, this species calls the high elevations around Mt. Washington in New Mexico home.
Where Does It Naturally Grow?
This native plant species is endemic to New Mexico, meaning it grows naturally nowhere else in the world. Its limited distribution makes it a truly special addition to any native plant collection, but also raises some important conservation considerations.
Important Rarity Considerations
Before you start planning where to plant Mt. Washington beardtongue, there’s something crucial you need to know: this plant has a Global Conservation Status of S3?Q, which indicates its conservation status is somewhat undefined but potentially of concern. This means if you’re interested in growing this rare beauty, you should only source it from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate their stock responsibly – never collect from wild populations.
Is Mt. Washington Beardtongue Right for Your Garden?
Here’s where things get a bit challenging. Mt. Washington beardtongue is definitely not your average garden center plant. This specialized native is best suited for:
- Dedicated native plant gardens
- Rock gardens with excellent drainage
- Alpine or high-elevation garden themes
- Collections focusing on rare southwestern natives
Given its high-elevation origins, this plant likely requires cooler conditions and exceptional drainage. It’s probably not the best choice for beginners or those looking for easy-care garden additions.
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific growing information for Mt. Washington beardtongue is limited due to its rarity, we can make educated guesses based on its native habitat:
- Soil: Well-draining, rocky or sandy soil is essential
- Water: Likely drought-tolerant once established, but may need some supplemental water
- Light: Probably prefers full sun to partial shade
- Climate: Best suited for cooler climates, likely USDA zones 5-7
Pollinator and Wildlife Benefits
Like other penstemons, Mt. Washington beardtongue likely attracts hummingbirds, native bees, and other pollinators with its tubular flowers. Supporting rare native plants like this one helps maintain the complex web of relationships between plants and the wildlife that depend on them.
The Bottom Line
Mt. Washington beardtongue is a plant for serious native plant enthusiasts rather than casual gardeners. Its rarity makes it a fascinating addition to specialized collections, but also means it requires responsible sourcing and probably some gardening expertise to grow successfully. If you’re up for the challenge and can source it ethically, this rare penstemon could be a unique conversation starter in your native plant garden.
For most gardeners interested in supporting native plants and pollinators, consider starting with more common and easier-to-grow penstemon species that are readily available from reputable nurseries. You’ll get similar benefits with much greater chance of success!
