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Re: Penstemon rupicola

Debbie:

Penstemon rupicola is one of the most satisfying subjects for propagation 
by cuttings of the current years growth.  Just cut or pull off 
non-flowering branchlets, then insert into a freely draining cutting 
medium.  I've rooted cuttings in anything from pure sand or pumice to a 
half-peat or compost, half sand medium.  Water in the cutting, let 
drain, and tent with polyethylene plastic.  Keep in a place with indirect 
light -- no direct sun.

P.rupicola isn't fussy about the time of year, but fall and early spring 
cuttings may root a little faster, since that's when roots are forming.  
[If you look closely at your plant you may find little nubbins wherever a 
branch touches soil.  These are root primordia -- P.rupicola and related 
species naturally spread by layering.]  Hormone can be used, but isn't 
necessary -- the only touchy thing is giving enough drainage to avoid 
rotting after the cutting is rooted.

Closely related "shrubby" penstemons include P.menziesii  and its 
cultivar 'Broken Top', P.cardwelli, P.fruticosus, P.newberryi, 
P.barrettae.  All are extremely willing cutting subjects.

Loren Russell, Corvallis Oregon

On Fri, 12 Sep 1997, Teachout-Teashon wrote:

> Trying to find out information on propagating this Penstemon. I have
> one and would like to take cuttings to winter over in my greenhouse.
> I find other Penstemons work at this time, but have not found any
> information on this one.
> 
> Your help would be very appreciated.
> 
> 
> 
>  Debbie TT  teachout@oz.net
>  ############################################
>  Suite 101 Pacific Northwest Gardening Editor
>  http://www.suite101.com/topics/page.cfm/416
>  Washington state USDA Zone 8b, Sunset Zone 5
>  ############################################
>  Just moved and deprived the village of their idiot.
> 
>
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