Hairy Beard-tongue

Hairy Beardtongue

Mashkiki-waabigwan
Penstemon hirsutus

Mashkiki-waabigwan – The Prairie Beardtongue

Mashkiki-waabigwan is a hardy native perennial known for its tubular lavender blooms and softly hairy stems. In open landscapes, plants like this stand upright through wind and sun — offering nectar, structure, and endurance within prairie and savanna systems.

A Native Wildflower of Dry Meadows

Hairy Beardtongue grows in prairies, savannas, open woods, and sandy clearings. In late spring to early summer, clusters of pale purple flowers rise above lance-shaped foliage, attracting bees and early butterflies. Its drought tolerance and adaptability make it a resilient contributor to restoration plantings.

Planting Mashkiki-waabigwan strengthens early-summer pollinator support and reinforces diversity in sunny habitats.

Growing Information

Height: 1–3 ft

Spread: 1–2 ft

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Dry to moderately moist, well-drained

Hardiness: Zone 3–8

Growth Rate: Moderate

Best planted in prairie restorations, pollinator gardens, sandy soils, or meadow borders. Thrives in lean, well-drained conditions and tolerates drought once established.

Ecological Importance

Mashkiki-waabigwan:

• Provides nectar for native bees and butterflies

• Supports early-season pollinator activity

• Stabilizes soil in open habitats

• Adds vertical diversity to prairie plant communities

Often planted in drifts where its soft purple blooms can rise among grasses and early summer wildflowers.

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive 🌱
Origin Native Plants 🌱

3.5 inch Pots