Consider-the-Lilies Web Gallery
Eastern Gray Beardtongue
A member of the Figwort (Scrophulariaceae) family, this erect, perennial wildflower is notable not only for the exotic shape of its blossoms, but also for the sweet perfume they emit.
Although many Figwort need a wet, marshy habitat, this exception to the rule favors well-drained, sunny slopes.
These beauties are growing in open forest at the edge of Virginia's Blue Ridge Parkway.
One branch includes the introduced varieties of Foxglove and Snapdragon found in many gardens.
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Other wild members of this large family include Turtle Head and Butter-and-eggs.
Most of the family, like this short-lived native, put out a floral spike topped by a cluster of perfumed, nodding flowers.
First blooming in mid-May, the last Penstemon canescens blossoms of the season will be displayed by the end of June in Virginia.
Both the botanic and the common names are fitting descriptors of this orchid-like wildflower.
Penstemon is botanic Latin for the five stamens, while canescens describes the hairy filaments streaming out from the interior of the blossom.
One of the stamens is sterile and is heavily covered or bearded with these yellow "hairs."
It sticks out like a rudely displayed tongue, thus the common name Beardtongue.
Isn't that an intriguing name? To me it ranks right up there with the Allegheny Monkey Flower, Fawn's Breath, Shaggy Soldier, and the ever-popular Spiny-bellied Orbweaver!
Any thoughts, pro or con? Why not drop me an anonymous note at the Comments page?
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Go back to the Main Directory to consider more lilies of the field.