Penstemon 'Onyx & Pearls'

Penstemon 'Onyx & Pearls': Contrast in Bloom

Dramatic and effortlessly elegant, Penstemon 'Onyx & Pearls' is a garden showstopper. Deep black-purple stems rise above dark foliage to display spires of soft, shell-pink to near-white tubular flowers, creating a captivating light-on-dark contrast from early to late summer. A favourite of bees and hummingbirds, this North American native cultivar combines pollinator power with high ornamental value. Compact, heat tolerant, and low maintenance, it’s equally suited to design-forward borders or naturalistic prairie-style plantings.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 75–90 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm
• Flower Colour: Blush to white with lavender overtones
• Flowering Period: June to August
• Foliage: Deep green with dusky undertones
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Average, well-drained soil

Uses and Benefits: Ideal in sunny borders, pollinator gardens, or contemporary designs where strong contrast is key. Its upright habit makes it a good mid-border or background accent, and its long bloom period offers extended garden interest. Adaptable and reliable, it holds up well through summer heat and dry spells.

Companion Plants: For a striking combination, pair with Salvia 'Pink Profusion', Allium 'Millenium', and Achillea 'Saucy Seduction'. Together, they deliver layered height, pollinator attraction, and colour harmony.

Care Instructions: Grow in full sun and well-drained soil. Water to establish, then reduce as the plant matures. Deadhead to prolong flowering. Cut back in early spring to maintain a tidy shape and encourage vigorous new growth.

History: Bred by Walters Gardens, 'Onyx & Pearls' was selected for its unusually dark stems and luminous floral display, offering a dramatic twist on the classic native beardtongue.

Final Thoughts: Refined yet resilient, Penstemon 'Onyx & Pearls' brings a modern edge to perennial gardens—combining native beauty with bold, designer-worthy contrast.