Description
Formerly classified in the genus Penstemon, red beardtongue is a flowering woody subshrub, growing 1′-2′ tall, now classified in the genus Keckiella. Red beardtongue is endemic to California, with populations north into Del Norte and Siskiyou Counties. It is found growing in sunny openings in mixed-evergreen forest, redwood forest, yellow pine forest, and on rocky ridgelines. Within its range it is often found growing in rocky substrates. The dark green foliage gives rise to bright, brick red tubular flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators, especially hummingbirds. Because this species flowers June-September, when many other nectar sources are done flowering for the season, it is a very important nectar source for hummingbirds at lower elevations throughout its range in mid to late summer into early fall, depending on elevation. Little to no summer water, well-drained soil and full sun are preferred.
Red beardtongue (Keckiella corymbosa) seed packets contain approximately 300 seeds per packet.
Seed Germination Instructions
30 days cold-moist stratification. Sow outside in fall or early spring.
