Blue beardtongue

3D Model

This model is of a dehisced (opened) capsule (type of fruit) from the Smooth Blue Beardtongue (Penstemon nitidus). When maturing the capsules dry out and open near the tip. Gusts of winds or passing animals shake the capsules and facilitate seed dispersal. This plant is eye-catching with smooth, bluish-green leaves, and long condensed spikes of pink to bluish-purple flowers. It is commonly found in drier areas, eroded sites and badlands, including throughout the southern prairies, and dry upland areas of the parkland. A nearby place to visit and find this plant is Dry Island Buffalo Jump provincial park, along with other cool plants there like cacti.