What is the common name for Penstemon?

The common name for Penstemon is "Beard Tongue." This name comes from the flower's unique shape, which features a tubular corolla and prominent stamens that resemble a tongue - often appearing to "stick out" from the throat of the flower. This characteristic is particularly notable in many species of Penstemon, where the stamen's hair-like structure gives the flower its common name. Additionally, Penstemon is renowned for its striking flowers that attract pollinators, making it a popular choice in gardens.

The other options are common names for entirely different plants, which lack a direct relation to Penstemon. Foxglove refers to the genus Digitalis, Bells of Ireland pertains to Moluccella laevis, and Snapdragon is known as Antirrhinum majus. Each of these plants has distinct characteristics and flowering structures that set them apart from Penstemon, reinforcing why "Beard Tongue" is the accurate common name for the specified genus.