All prefer full sun on well drained soil ( most do NOT like clay ) with either stone mulch or no mulch at all. Most species should not be fertilized too heavily since too much can shorten the life of the plant. It is important to NOT plant too deep as this can smother the crown. Only a few species of Penstemons native to the eastern U.S. are tolerant of hot humid summers, the remainder preferring climates such as the Great Plains and Rockies with dry heat and cool summer nights. Most Penstemons are very drought tolerant. It is recommended to cut back plants in very early spring before new growth begins. Be careful not to cut too far back on shrubby or evergreen varieties. Some species will rebloom if old flowerstalks are removed.
Many Penstemons can be pinched during late spring when they are a foot tall to encourage a more bushy habit.
All Penstemons also attract hummingbirds and are mostly rabbit and deer resistant.
Propagation is usually from division or softwood cuttings taken during spring. When growing from seed, place seed in containers with very light, well drained soil mix then sprinkle barely enough sand on top to cover them. Set outside in protected location and let natural freeze/thaw occur over winter to break dormancy. Keep the soil mix just damp over the winter...too much moisture will rot the seeds.
Excellent external link on Penstemons... http://www.wildgingerfarm.com/Penstemon.htm
* photo of unknown internet source
* photos taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
Penstemon acuminatus ( Sand Dune Beardtongue )
A woody based perennial, reaching up to 2 feet, that is native to dry grasslands at high elevation in the western U.S. ( from central Washington State to central Idaho; south to central Nevada ).
The pointed, oval leaves are up to 6 x 0.8 inches in size. The foliage is glossy deep green.
The flowers, up to 0.8 inch long, are bright blue to purple.
Hardy zones 5 to 6 on sandy, very well drained soil. It requires 12+ inches of yearly precip.
* photos taken by Sheri Hagwood @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Penstemon alamosensis ( Alamo Canyon Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 1 feet, that is a rare native to the southwestern U.S.
The gray foliage is borne from dense, compact rosettes.
The bright orangish-coral flowers are borne on tall spikes.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on alkaline, light, very well drained soil. Very drought tolerant.
Penstemon albertinus ( Alberta Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 16 inches in height, that is native to southeast British Columbia and southwest Alberta, much of Idaho and western Montana.
Its main attraction is spires of deep blue flowers.
Hardy zones 3 ot 6 in partial shade.
Penstemon albidus ( White Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 1 x 1.3 foot, that is native to sandy and gravelly prairie in central North America ( from southern Alberta to southern Sask. to southern Manitoba to Kenora, Ontario; south to northwest Montana to central Texas to western Iowa ).
The oblanceolate leaves are up to 2.5 inches in length. The foliage is blue-green to mid-green.
The white, tubular flowers, up to 0.8 inches long, are borne on dense, upright spikes.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on sandy or gravelly, very well drained soil.
* photo taken by Mark J. Miller @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Penstemon alluviorum
Closely related and similar to Penstemon digitalis, reaching up to 5 feet in height, it is native to marshlands in the Mississippi Valley ( from Missouri to southern ohio; south to Arkansas to central Alabama ). It is endangered in most states it resides in and continues to decline from habitat destruction.
The sharply-toothed leaves are lance-shaped.
The flowers, up to 0.9 inches in length, are borne on open panicles from late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in full sun on moist to wet fertile soil.
Penstemon alpinus
A clump-forming perennial, reaching up to 2.5 feet x 8+ inches ( usually under 1.5 feet ), that is native to the Rocky Mountains.
The broad leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The violet-red to blue ( with white throat ) flowers are borne during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
* historical archive photo
Penstemon angustifolius ( Pagoda Penstemon )
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 1 foot in height, bearing bright blue flowers all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Great for containers.
Penstemon azureus ( Azure Penstemon )
A fast growing, woody-based, evergreen, groundcover perennial, reaching up to 2 x 6 feet in size, that is native from southwest Oregon to central California.
The elliptical leaves are bright blue-green.
The intense deep lavender-blue flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 7b to 9 ( tolerating 10 F ) in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Drought tolerant but requires 26 + inches of yearly rainfall. Cut to near ground after flowering.
Penstemon baccharifolius ( Rock Penstemon )
An evergreen, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 2 x 3 feet, that is native to mountains of southwestern Texas and adjacent parts of Mexico.
The toothed, leathery leaves are up to 2 inches in length.
The rose-red flowers, up to 1.3 inches in length, are borne during spring and summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in full sun on very well drained soil. Tolerant of drought and alkaline soil.
Penstemon barbatus ( Coral Penstemon )
A fast growing perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 4 ( rarely over 4 ) feet, that is native to mountain woodlands in Nevada, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico.
The narrow, lance-shaped, leathery, glossy mid-green leaves, up to 8 inches in length forms a low, evergreen mound.
The rose-red, bearded-lipped, trumpet-shaped flowers, up to 1.6 inches in length, are borne on spikes from mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil, heat tolerant and moderately drought tolerant.
'Blue Riding Hood'
Vigorous. compact and sturdy, upright in habit, reaching up to 2 x 2 feet.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 3 x 0.8 inches in size.
The blue and violet-blue flowers, up to 1.2 x 1 inches in size, appear over most of the summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8
* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
'Blue Rock Candy'
Moderate growing and compact, upright, reaching up to 1.7 x 1.5 feet in 1 year, eventually slightly wider.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 6 x 1.2 inches in size.
The laven0er-blue flowers are borne on upright spikes during late spring, repeating during late summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9
* photo taken on May 29 2020 in Elkridge, MD
* patent photo
'Coccineus'
Similar to species except for intense scarlet-red flowers.
Hardy zones 2 to 9, tolerating as low as -50 F.
Elfin Pink'
Reaches up to 3 x 1.5 ( rarely over 1 ) feet, with attractive evergreen foliage and mid-pink flowers borne on dense long spikes.
'Hyacinth Mix'
Very hardy, compact, seed strain, reaching up to 1 foot, with flowers that can come in either pink, scarlet-red or blue.
'Praecox Nanus Rondo'
Reaches up to 1.5 x 3 feet, with scarlet-red, bell-shaped flowers borne early summer into early autumn.
* photos taken on June 16 2012 in Columbia, MD
'Pinacolada Dark Rose'
Moderate growing, dense and compact in habit, reaching up to 8 inches x 1 foot.
The foliage is deep green.
The abundant, bright rosy-pink flowers are borne during early summer.
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
'Pinacolada Violet'
Moderate growing, dense and compact in habit, reaching up to 1 x 1.5 feet.
The foliage is deep green.
The abundant, violet-blue flowers are borne on panicles during early to mid summer, often repeat blooming into early autumn if deadheaded.
* photos taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
'Pink Rock Candy'
Moderate growing and compact, upright, reaching up to 1.7 x 1.5 feet in 1 year, eventually slightly wider.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 6 x 1.2 inches in size.
The intense mid-pink flowers are borne on upright spikes during late spring, repeating during late summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9
* photo taken on May 29 2024 in Elkridge, MD
'Prairie Dusk'
Intense purple flowers borne all summer long on sturdy stems, up to 2 feet high. Looks great with yellow flowering plants.
'Pristine Blue'
Vigorous and upright, reaching up to 1.7 x 1.5 feet.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The intense deep blue flowers appear late summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 9
* photo taken on May 9 2024 in Elkridge, MD
Vigorous and upright, reaching up to 1.7 x 1.5 feet.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The intense deep violet flowers appear late summer into early autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 9
* photo taken on May 29 2024 in Elkridge, MD
'Red Riding Hood'
A cultivar originating from the Netherlands, reaching up to 2 x 0.8 feet in 1 year, eventually to 2.6 x 2 feet. It is compact, sturdy and very upright in habit, rarely flopping over.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 3.1 x 0.8 inches in size.
The abundant, very large, white-lipped, intense bright-red flowers are borne late spring and all summer long. Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun. It is drought tolerant but also tolerates more humid conditions in the eastern U.S.
* photos taken on May 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 19 2023 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA
* patent photo
'Rondo'
Reaches up to 2 feet.
* photos taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
'Ruby Rock Candy'
Moderate growing and compact, upright, reaching up to 1.7 x 1.5 feet in 1 year, eventually slightly wider.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 6 x 1.2 inches in size.
The intense ruby-red flowers are borne on upright spikes during late spring, repeating during late summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9
* photos taken on May 14 2024 in Elkridge, MD
'Schooley's Coral'
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 1.5 feet x 15 inches, with flowers that are yellow in bud, turning to pink, then finally to coral-pink when fully open.
The very profuse flowers are borne over a long season.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Penstemon caespidata ( Mat Penstemon )
Hardy zones 4 to 9
'Claude Barr'
A mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 6 inches high, with bright purple flowers.
Penstemon campanulatus ( Harebell Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1 foot, that is native to the mountains of Mexico and Guatemala.
The toothed, lance-shaped leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The deep pink to purple flowers are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 9 to 10 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon canescens ( Eastern Gray Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to dry woods in eastern North America ( from Franklin County in southern Illinois to central Indiana to far southern Ohio to Blair then Snyder Counties in Pennsylvania; south to central Alabama to northern Georgia to central North Carolina ). It is critically endangered in Ohio where it only remains near Ironton.
The saw-toothed, broad lance-shaped leaves, up to 6 inches in length, form a basal rosette. The foliage is deep green.
The pale-pink flowers, up to 2 inches, are borne on open panicles during late spring into early summer.
The downy stems are ashy-gray.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on light, well drained soil.
Propagation is typically from division during autumn or early spring.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photo taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
Penstemon cardinalis ( Cardinal Penstemon )
A moderate growing, upright perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 2 feet, that is a rare native to Pinyon-Juniper woodlands in the mountains of central New Mexico and far western Texas.
The elliptical leaves are up to 5 inches in length.
The intense scarlet-red flowers, up to 1.3 inches long, are borne on spikes during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on moist, well drained soil. It is very heat tolerant and can also tolerate the occasional drought once established.
Penstemon centranthifolius ( Scarlet Bugler Penstemon )
A vigorous, upright, evergreen perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to open oak woods and chaparral in central to southern California.
The lance-shaped leaves are gray-green.
The intense orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers are borne on spikes during spring.
Hardy zones 9 to 10 ( tolerating 15 F ) in full sun on well drained soil. Cut nearly to ground after blooming to encourage vigorous new growth.
Penstemon clutei
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1.5 feet, that is native to the vincinity of Sunset Crater in Arizona.
The finely-toothed leaves are blue-green.
The flowers, up to 0.5 inches wide, are deep pink.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soils. It will not survive in the humid east.
Penstemon cobaea 'Purpurea' ( Foxglove Penstemon )
A rare, spectacular perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 1.5 feet, that is native to southern Missouri in the Ozarks. Short lived, often lasting only 4 years.
The large, glossy deep-green leaves form rosettes.
The large, lavender-purple flowers are borne on spikes during early summer lasting up to a month.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Easy to grow, tolerant of drought and poor soil. It is also tolerant of moist humid conditions in the eastern U.S.
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
Penstemon confertus ( Yellow Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1 feet, that is native to western North America ( from Vancouver, British Columbia to Kamloops, B.C. to Calgary, Alberta to Saskatchewan; south to north-central Oregon to southwest Montana ). The lance-shaped leaves are up to 2 inches in length.
The yellow flowers, up to 0.8 inches in length, appear during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 6.
Penstemon cordifolia ( Heart-leaved Penstemon )
Also called Keckiella cordifolia. A spawling, vine-like, rounded, drought-deciduous shrub, reaching up to 5 x 5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet in size, that is native from southern California to the Baja Peninsula.
The toothed, cordate, broadly-ovate leaves, up to 2.5 inches in length, are glossy, rich deep green.
The bright orange-red flowers are borne during spring.
The arching stems are red.
Hardy zones 9 to 11 in full sun to partial shade. Cut back to 6 inches in height where summer dormancy occurs.
Penstemon cristatus ( Crested Beardtongue )
Also called Penstemon eriantherus. A bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 1 foot, that is native to western North America ( from British Columbia to Alberta to northwest North Dakota to central North Dakota; south to northeast Oregon to central Nebraska ). It is found in mountain meadows and rocky grasslands in the wild.
The oblanceolate leaves are up to 2.3 inches in length.
The intense lavender-purple flowers, up to 1 inches long, are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. ) in full sun on sandy or gravelly, very well drained soil. It requires a yearly precip of 12+ inches. Very drought tolerant.
Penstemon cyananthus ( Wasatch Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet in size, that is native from Idaho to Wyoming; south to Utah.
The foliage turns to orange-red during autumn.
The bright blue flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on light, well drained soil.
Penstemon davidsonii ( Davidson's Penstemon )
A mat-forming, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 2 feet, is native to the western North America ( from the Queen Charlotte Islands to Bella Coola, British Columbia to near Penticton, B.C.; south to central California ).
The elliptical leaves, up to 0.8 inches in length, are gray-green.
The rich pink to deep-red flowers are borne on short inflorescences during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. ) in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon digitalis ( Foxglove Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to damp woods of eastern North America ( from eastern Nebraska to eastern Minnesota to northern Michigan to Cape Croker, Ontario to Ottawa, Ontario to New Brunswick & Nova Scotia: south to eastern Texas to northern Georgia to southeast Virginia ). It is endangered in Nebraska.
The toothed, oblanceolate, evergreen, basal leaves are up to 10 x 2.8 ( rarely over 8 ) inches in size. The thick foliage is blue-green.
The nodding, white to very pale purplish-pink, tubular flowers, up to 1.2 x 1 inches in size, are borne on narrow spikes during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun to partial shade. Very easy to grow, it thrives in just about any soil, including clay, that isn't extremely dry or boggy ( though it can tolerate temporary flooding ). Deer resistant.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photo taken on Sep 14 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 1 2014 @ Maryland Horticulturalist Society garden tour, Ellicott City
* photos taken on May 30 2015 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 28 2017 in Howard Co., MD
* photo taken on Sep 3 2018 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 22 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 1 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on May 29 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Blackbeard'
A very attractive, fast growing, strongly-upright. perennial, reaching up to 2.8 x 2.6 feet in 2 years, eventually to 3 x 2.6 feet. It originated at Walters Gardens in Michigan.
The foliage is blackish-purple. The leaves are up to 9 x 2.5 inches in size.
The flowers, up to 1 inch wide, are pale purple. They are followed by attractive seed pods which are deep red.
Hardy zones 4 to 8.
* photo taken on Apr 24 2024 in Elkridge, MD
* patent photo
'Dark Towers'
A very attractive, fast growing perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 1.8 feet in 2 years, eventually to 3 x 4 feet. This hybrid was developed by the University of Nebraska.
The foliage resembles that of P. digitalis 'Huskers Red' but is very glossy and very deep purplish-red, holding its color all summer long. The oblanceolate leaves are up to 8 x 1.5 inches in size. This perennial combines especially well with the white Shasta Daisies.
The lavender-pink flowers, up to 1.5 inches across, are borne during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8.
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
* photos taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
* photo taken on July 16 2018 in Midland, ON
* photos taken on May 22 2019 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Apr 25 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 1 2020 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 1 2022 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 2 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Oct 27 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 13 2023 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 16 2024 in Columbia, MD
'Husker Red'
Similar except with deep red, later turning bronze-purple foliage contrasting well with white to very pale-pink flowers during early to mid summer.
The stems are also deep purple.
Great for mass plantings.
Many nurseries sell plants that do not have good color, these have often been grown from seed rather than cuttings.
* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photo of unknown internet source
* photo takens on Mar 7 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Apr 23 2015 in Ellicott City, MD
* photo taken on June 16 2016 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA
* photos taken on May 28 2017 in Howard Co., MD
* photo taken on July 25 2017 in Columbia, MD
'Midnight Masquerade'
Moderate growing, compact and strongly-upright, reaching up to 2.7 x 2.2 feet in 2 years, eventually to 3.3 x 3 feet.
The foliage is deep reddish-purple. The leaves are up to 7 x 3 inches in size.
The intense lavender-purple flowers appear over period lasting up to a month during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8
* photos taken on June 19 2023 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA
* photo taken on May 9 2024 in Elkridge, MD
* patent photo
'Onyx and Pearls'
A very vigorous form, reaching up to 3.4 x 2.2 feet in 2 years, eventually up to 3.5 x 3.5 feet.
The foliage is very deep reddish-purple. The leaves are up to 9 x 2.4 inches in size.
The white flowers appear during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8, it is very heat and humidity tolerant.
* patent photos
'Pocahontas'
Fast growing and upright, reaching up to 3.3 x 3 feet in 2 years, eventually to 4 x 3 feet.
The foliage is very deep, reddish-purple. The oblanceolate leaves are up to 8 x 2.3 inches in size.
The lavender flowers appear over a period lasting up to a month during early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8
* patent photo
'Precious Gem'
Reaches up to 3 x 3.3 feet, with attractive bronze foliage that contrasts well with pink flowers, up to 1.2 inches long, borne on showy spikes during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
'Rachel's Dance'
Reaches up to 20 inches, with bright purplish-red leaves borne on deep red-brown stems. The foliage retains its color all season and contrasts well with the white to very pale pink flowers.
Penstemon eatonii ( Firecracker Penstemon )
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 4.3 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet in height, that is native to the southwest U.S. incl. California.
The triangular leaves, up to 5 inches long, are large and leathery. The foliage is blue-green.
The flowers, up to 0.7 inches long, are scarlet-red and are great for attracting hummingbirds. They appear during early to late spring depending on weather conditions.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Penstemon fruticosus ( Shrubby Penstemon )
A shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 feet x 20 inches, that is native to western North America ( from Burns Lake, British Columbia to Banff National Park, Alberta; south to Oregon to northwest Wyoming.
The leathery, evergreen foliage forms a bushy low mound. When mass planted, it can make a great groundcover.
The smooth-edged to lightly toothed, lance-shaped leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are green, turning to bronze during winter.
The very profuse, lavender-purple flowers, up to 1.6 inches, are borne during late spring into early summer. The flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 ( possibly 3 for Montana seed source ) on very well drained soil including pure sand or gravel. Very tolerant of drought, it does not like heavy, wet clay or over frequent irrigation.
* photo taken by Loren St. John @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
'Catherine de la Mare'
lilac-blue flowers.
'Purple Haze'
Reaches up to 1.5 x 2 feet, with spectacular lilac-purple flowers.
Great for edging, rock gardens and cascading over landscape walls.
Penstemon glaber ( Sawsepal Penstemon )
A very attractive, clumping perennial, reaching up to 2 feet in height, that is native to prairies in the North American Great Plains ( from central Montana to south-central North Dakota; south to northern New Mexico to western Nebraska.
The oblanceolate leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are deep green.
The deep blue flowers are up to 1.2 inches in length.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on sandy or stony, well drained soil. It is very tolerant of limestone and alkaline soils.
* historic archive photo
Penstemon gracilis ( Lilac Penstemon )
A long lived perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1.5 feet, that is native to North America ( from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Edmonton, Alberta to Winnipeg, Manitoba to Whitedog & Minaki, Ontario to Rainy River, Ontario; south to northern New Mexico to southeast Nebraska to far northwest Indiana ). It is endangered in Iowa, Michigan and Indiana. It is found on dry prairies in the wild.
The oppositely-arranged, toothed, linear to narrowly lance-shaped leaves are up to 4.5 x 0.3 inches in size. The foliage is bright green.
The white to soft lilac ( with yellow beard ), bell-shaped flowers, up to 1 inch long, are borne on panicles from mid to late summer.
The stems are red.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon grandiflorus ( Shell-Leaf Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 feet x 20 inches, that is native to central North America ( from Wyoming to North Dakota to Illinois; south to Texas ). It is endangered in the wild.
The attractive, leathery, rounded leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are blue-green.
The lavender flowers, up to 2 inches, are borne late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun. Tolerant of heat and drought.
Propagation is easy from seed and it often self sows.
'Prairie Snow'
Abundant white flowers.
Penstemon hartwegii
A bushy perennial, reaching up to 4 x 1.6 feet, that is native to Mexico.
The leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are rich-green.
The flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are bright scarlet-red.
Hardy zones 8 to 10
Penstemon haydenii
Among the rarest of all Penstemons. Full text description coming soon.
* photo of unknown internet source
Penstemon heterophyllus ( Foothill Penstemon )
A fast growing, mat-forming, shrubby, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 5 ( rarely over 2 x 3 ) feet,
that is a widespread native of California.
The linear to lance-shaped leaves, up to 3 ( rarely over 2 ) inches in length, are glossy, deep blue-green, often turning deep red during late summer drought or autumn.
The abundant, pinkish-blue to bright blue flowers, each up to 1.5 inches, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( not in the humid eastern U.S. ) in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Very drought tolerant but also tolerant of occasional summer watering. Clay tolerant.
'Blue Bedder'
Compact in habit, with flowers that are bright blue. In mild climates such as California, it may bloom up to 8 months of the year if deadheaded.
'Blue Springs'
A dense, compact, long-lived perennial, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet in size.
The flowers are intense mid-blue.
'Heavenly Blue'
Blue flowers.
'Margarita BOP'
Fast growing and mat-forming, reaching up to 2 x 3 feet in size.
The flowers are bright blue, later fading to purple. It often begins blooming during mid-spring and with ideal conditions may continue into early autumn.
var purdyi ( Purdy's Penstemon )
Reaches up to 2 x 3 + feet in size, and is native to northern and central California.
The attractive foliage is deep green.
The rich blue flowers are borne from spring into summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 10 in full sun in climates with 30 + inches of yearly rainfall. Cut back after first flush of blooms to encourage rebloom.
Penstemon hirsutus ( Hairy Beard-Tongue )
A long lived ( 10 + years ), rapid spreading, clumping perennial, reaching up to 4 x 4 ( rarely over 3 x 2 ) feet, that is native to dry sandy or gravelly, oak savanna and prairies in eastern North America ( from southeast Iowa to southern Wisconsin to central Michigan to Sarnia, Ontario to Belleville, Ontario to southeast Quebec and Maine; south to Tennessee to Virginia ). It was abundant on the Lake Erie islands and the Sandusky Peninsula though rare on the remainder of the Ohio shore during the 1800s.
The sharply-toothed, oblanceolate leaves, up to 5.2 x 1.2 inches in size, are glossy green above, downy beneath. The bases of the upper leaves join around the stems. The green, evergreen foliage turns to bronze during winter.
The violet flowers, up to an inch in width, are borne on a leafless inflorescence during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant. Tolerates hot, humid summers.
* photo taken on June 2 2023 in Columbia, MD
* historic archive photo
'Pygmaeus'
Reaches up to 6 x 12 inches with violet flowers borne all summer long.
Makes an excellent groundcover, even tolerating dry shade.
Penstemon jamesii
A perennial, reaching up to 2 feet in height, that is native to mountain coniferous forests of the southwestern U.S. ( from southern Utah to southwest Colorado; south to northern Arizona to western Texas )
The linear leaves are up to 4.4 x 0.6 inches in size.
Hardy zones 6 to 8 in full sun on warm, dry, well drained soil.
* photos taken by Patrick J. Alexander @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Penstemon laevigatus ( Smooth Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3.5 x 3 feet, that is native to meadows and rich woodlands in the eastern U.S. ( from Arkansas to western Kentucky to to Chillicothe, Ohio to Erie, Pennsylvania to Lock Haven, PA to Massachusetts; south to northern Louisiana and far northern Florida ). It is critically endangered in Connecticut, New Jersey and Delaware. Endangered in Ohio and threatened in Maryland and Pennsylvania.
The lance-shaped to narrow-oblong leaves are up to 6 x 2.5 inches in size.
The purplish flowers, up to 0.9 inches long, are borne early to mid summer.
It thrives in full sun to partial shade on well drained soils.
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photos taken on May 29 2024 in Columbia, MD
Penstemon linarioides ssp. coloradoensis
A tiny, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 1.5 x 2 feet, with green, needle-like leaves.
The abundant flowers are purple.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Penstemon menziesii
A shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet, with toothed, oblong leaves and violet-blue or purple flowers during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon x mexicali
A group of hybrid Penstemons, reaching up to 15 inches in height.
The narrow foliage is deep green.
The flowers are borne late summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun. Moderately drought tolerant.
* photo taken on Sep 29 2013 in Ellicott City, MD
'Minibells Lavender Bicolor'
Forms a dense, upright mound up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet.
The abundant pink flowers appear late spring into early summer, repeating during late summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9
* photos taken on May 14 2024 in Elkridge, MD
'Pikes Peak Purple'
A fast growing and compact perennial, reaching up to 15 inches x 1 foot. The narrow lance-shaped, evergreen leaves are deep green. The showy violet-purple flowers are borne all summer long. Hardy zones 4b to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is very heat, drought and humidity tolerant, even thriving in the southeast.
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
'Red Rocks'
A form of P. campanulatus. Reaches up to 1.5 x 2.5 feet with glossy bright green, narrow foliage and reddish-pink flowers late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is more moisture tolerant than many Penstemons but is also drought tolerant.
* photo taken on May 21 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 17 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Nov 10 2014 in Burtonsville, MD
* photo taken on Oct 6 2021 in Howard County, MD
Penstemon newberryi
An evergreen shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1 foot x 32 inches, with toothed, oval leaves.
The abundant, deep red flowers are borne on short spikes during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid eastern U.S. )
Penstemon nitidus ( Shining Penstemon )
A moderate growing, rosette forming, erect perennial, reaching up to 16 x 14 inches, that is native to western North America ( from far southeast British Columbia to Edmonton, Alberta to southern Saskatchewan to Manitoba; south to central Idaho to central Colorado to central South Dakota ). It is endangered in British Columbia, Manitoba and South Dakota, abundant in Saskatchewan.
The thick, fleshy, lance-shaped to ovate leaves, up to 4 x 1 inch in size, are bluish-gray.
The purple, lavender or blue flowers, up to 0.8 inches long, are borne on a long erect raceme during late spring.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun on sandy, very well drained soil. Drought tolerant.
Penstemon ovatus ( Broad-Leaved Penstemon )
A perennial, reaching up to 4 x 2 feet, that is native to open woodlands and limestone outcrops in the Pacific Northwest ( from southwest British Columbia; south to northern Oregon ).
The broad, leathery leaves are up to 6 inches in length.
The lavender-blue to purple flowers, up to 0.8 inches in length, are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on just about any fertile, well drained soil.
'Albus'
White flowers.
Penstemon pallidus ( Pale Beardtongue )
A rhizomatous perennial, reaching up to 3.3 feet in height, that is native to open woods and prairies in eastern North America ( from northeast Minnesota to northern Vermont to central Michigan to Ontario to central Maine; south to southeastern Kansas to northern Arkansas to central Alabama to far northern Georgia to central Virginia ). It is critically endangered in Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio and Georgia. It has become extinct in Vermont and is likely native to far southeastern Quebec though no recent sightings there.
The toothed, lance-shaped leaves, up to 3.2 x 0.7 inches in size, are hairy bright green.
The white flowers, up to 0.8 inches wide, are borne on an upright panicle, up to 10 inches in length, during late spring or early summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on just about any well drained soil.
* photo taken on May 9 2024 in Elkridge, MD
Penstemon palmeri ( Palmer's Penstemon )
A fast growing, upright perennial, reaching up to 7 x 3 ( rarely over 5 ) feet, that is native to the southwestern U.S. ( from northern Nevada to central Idaho to western Wyoming; south to southeast California to southern New Mexico ). It is usually found in open pinyon-juniper woods and desert in the wild.
The attractive thick, grayish-blue leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The large, pale-pink ( centered darker ) flowers, up to 2 x 1.4 inches, are borne in huge spikes during late spring into early summer. This is among the very few fragrant Penstemon.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on dry, rocky or sandy, well drained soil. Requires average annual precip of under 18 inches making it suitable only in the western U.S. Cut almost to ground after flowering to encourage fresh new growth.
Penstemon parryi
A perennial, reaching up to 4.5 x 3 feet, that is native to central Arizona into Sonora state in Mexico.
The leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are blue-green.
The showy, deep rose-pink flowers, up to 0.7 inches long, are borne mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 8 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil.
Penstemon pinifolius ( Pineleaf Beardtongue )
A moderate growing, compact, low, evergreen shrub reaching up to 2 x 2 feet, that is native to Arizona, New Mexico and neighboring northern Mexico.
The very narrow, needle-like leaves are up to 4 inches in length. The foliage is mid-green.
The profuse, bright-red, tubular flowers are borne on spikes during summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on fertile, well drained soil. Heat and extremely drought tolerant.
'Compactum'
A miniature form, reaching up to 10 inches x 1 foot, very profusely bearing intense scarlet-red flowers during late spring but many weeks before regular Penstemon pinifolius.
'Mercea Yellow'
Vigorous in habit, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 4 feet, with very abundant, yellow flowers borne over a long season during mid summer.
'Nearly Red'
Reaches up to 1.5 x 1 foot, with red, long, tubular flowers.
'Tall Orange Mix'
A mix sold by High Country Gardens that includes a mix of very abundant, intense orange and scarlet flowers.
Penstemon 'Prairie Twilight'
A vigorous, sturdy perennial, reaching up to 1.8 x 2.2 feet.
The lance-shaped leaves are deep green, turning bronze-red during autumn.
The bright purple ( white tipped ), tubular flowers appear during late spring into mid-summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on light or sandy, well drained soil.
* photo taken on May 17 2017 in Columbia, MD
Penstemon procumbens
A low creeping, groundcover perennial reaching only 2 inches in height.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
'Claude Barr'
Pink flowers borne all summer long.
Penstemon procerus ( Small Flowered Penstemon )
A rhizomatous perennial, reaching up to 16 x 16 inches, that is native to northwest North America ( from southwest Yukon to far southeast Yukon to Slave Lake, Alberta to Manitoba; south to central California to central Colorado ). It sometimes forms large colonies in the wild. It is endangered in Manitoba and North Dakota. It is found in open woods and meadows in the wild.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 3 x 0.5 inches in size, are deep green.
The purplish-pink to lavender-blue ( with white center ) flowers, up to 0.5 inches long, are borne on axillary whorls and terminal spikes during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on sandy, very well drained soil. It is very drought tolerant.
var formosus
A low alpine form that makes a great rock garden plant. It reaches only 2 inches in height and bears lavender flowers during summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 7.
Penstemon pseudospectabilis ( Canyon Penstemon )
Reaches up to 4 x 3 feet, with evergreen foliage that forms a showy mound. It is native to the Arizona and southern New Mexico.
The triangular leaves, up to 5 inches long, are blue-green.
The very abundant, spectacular, intense deep-pink, tubular flowers, up to 0.7 inches long, are borne on spikes over a month during late spring. In some climates, it may bloom for most of the year.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 on poor, well drained soils. Very drought tolerant, it thrives on hot dry sites. The cultivar 'Coconino' specifically from Coconino Co., Arizona is the most cold hardy clone surviving in zone 5.
Penstemon richardsonii ( Richardson's Beardtongue )
A brittle-stemmed, woody based perennial, reaching up to 3 feet in height, that is native to dry rocky areas from Vancouver to Kelowna, British Columbia to northeast Washington State; south to Oregon.
The deeply double-toothed, ovate leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The flowers are rose-pink.
Hardy zones 6 to 8 ( not in humid east )
Penstemon rostriflorus ( Bridge's Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 3.3 x 1.5 feet, that is native to high mountains of eastern California, Nevada and Utah. The very abundant, intense orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers are borne during mid summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil, preferring dry climates with cool summer nights.
Penstemon rupicola
A low, mat-forming, evergreen, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 8 inches x 1.5 feet, that is native from Washington State to northern California.
The small, thick, leathery leaves are up to 1 inch in length. The foliage is blue-green.
The deep purplish-pink flowers are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( not in humid east ) in full sun to partial shade on moist, well drained soil.
Penstemon scouleri
A dense, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet, that is native from British Columbia to Idaho.
The leathery, oval leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are deep green.
The purple flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are borne early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( not in humid east )
Penstemon smallii ( Small's Beard Tongue )
A moderately long lived, bushy perennial, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, that is native to woodlands of Tennessee and the Carolinas.
The pinkish-purple flowers, up to 1 inch, are borne during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained or sandy soil. Very drought tolerant.
* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014
* photo taken on May 20 2016 in Columbia, MD
Penstemon spectabilis ( Royal Penstemon )
A fast growing, upright, evergreen perennial, reaching up to 6 x 4 ( rarely over 4 ) feet in size, that is native to southern California.
The stem-clasping leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are smooth gray-green.
Up to 100 violet-blue flowers, each up to 1 inch, are borne on long spikes during early to late spring.
Hardy zones 9 to 10 ( est ) in full sun on sandy or gravelly, well drained soil. Very drought tolerant. Cut nearly to ground after flowering to renovate.
Penstemon strictus ( Porch Penstemon )
A long lived, clumping, evergreen perenial reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 3.3 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, that is native to mountains in the western U.S. from Utah to Wyoming; south to Arizona to New Mexico.
The long, narrow, oval leaves, up to 4 inches in length, form a dense mat.
The glossy deep green foliage turns purplish during winter.
The deep blue-purple flowers, up to 1 inch in length, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( not in humid east ) in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant and easy to grow. Allow some seed to form to sustain the plant however allowing too much seed to form may shorten its life expectancy.
'Bandera'
Intense deep purplish-blue flowers up to 2 inches in length, otherwise similar to species.
Penstemon superbus ( Coral Penstemon )
A fast growing perennial, forming a foliage clump, up to 2 x 3 feet, reaching up to 6 feet in height while in bloom. It is native from southeastern Arizona to New Mexico.
The leaves are oblong. The foliage is blue-green.
The coral-pink flowers, up to 0.7 inches long, appear during spring.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in full sun on dry, well drained soil.
Penstemon tenuis ( Gulf Coast Beardtongue )
A perennial, reaching up to 4 x 3 feet, that is native from Texas to Arkansas; south to Louisiana.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in full sun; it is soil tolerant, thriving on both well drained or swampy soil.
Penstemon venustus
A tap-rooted, woody-based perennial, reaching up to 2.7 feet in height, that is native to the northwestern U.S. ( Washington State to Idaho; south to Oregon ).
The toothed, lance-shaped leaves, up to 4 x 1.3 inches in size, are mid-green.
The lavender to violet-purple flowers, up to 1.5 x 0.3 inches in size, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil.
Penstemon virens ( Blue Mist Beardtongue )
A dwarf perennial, reaching up to 8 x 10 inches, that is native to forested hills of eastern Colorado and Wyoming.
The deep green foliage forms evergreen rosettes.
The blue ( with lavender throat ) flowers are borne on spikes during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
Penstemon whippleanus
A very long-lived, evergeen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 feet x 15 inches, that is native to alpine meadows and open high montane forests in the western U.S. ( Montana to northern Arizona and New Mexico ).
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The purple-blue flowers are borne early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( tolerating -40 F ) in full sun to partial shade on just about any fertile, well drained soil.
Penstemon Hybrids
Hardy zones 7 to 9 with a preferance for hot summers. In England or other cool summer climates, they are often used in massed bedding but are best treated as annuals though it can be attempted to bring them through the winter with mulching.
Most cultivars listed below flower from early summer to mid autumn and all prefer full sun and well drained soil. The Penstemons are excellent for use in planters.
Penstemon 'Bev Jensen'
Upright and dense, reaching up to 3 feet, with broad, mid-green leaves and large, showy, rich rose--purple flowers with deep red throat streaking.
Penstemon 'Blackbird'
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with broad mid-green leaves and deep red-purple flowers on red-purple stems.
Penstemon 'Blue Lips'
An evergreen perennial, reaching up to 10 inches x 1.5 feet. This is an introduction from the outstanding nursery High Country Nursery.
The needle-like leaves are blue-gray.
The profuse, showy, lavender ( bright blue lipped ) flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 on well drained soil. Rabbit resistant.
Penstemon 'Elizabeth Cozzens'
Reaches up to 2.5 x 3 feet, with short, lance, mid-green leaves and lilac-pink ( with purplish-pink ) throat striping.
Penstemon 'Enor'
Tight and upright in habit, with glossy mid-green leaves.
The flowers are purple-red to mid-purple.
Penstemon 'Garnet'
Fast growing and floppy in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, with glossy mid-green leaves and intense deep-red flowers are borne during late summer.
Prone to some leafspot.
Penstemon 'Ghent Purple'
Compact and mounding, reaching up to 1.5 feet.
The serrated narrow leaves are bright green.
The purple flowers have a speckled white throat.
Disease resistant.
Penstemon 'Holly's White'
Reaches up to 1.5 feet with mid-green leaves and white flowers.
Penstemon 'Joy'
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with broad, bright green leaves.
The flowers are rich salmon-red with a white throat.
Penstemon 'King George'
Reaches up to 3 feet with salmon-red flowers that have a white throat. The flowers are borne mid-summer to mid-autumn.
Penstemon 'Midnight'
Also called 'Midnight Blue'. Vigorous and upright in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, it is a long-lived perennial, persisting longer than many Penstemons.
The narrow, recurved leaves are deep green.
The deep purplish-blue flowers, up to 1.2 x 1 inches in size, are borne early summer to early autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 7 +.
Penstemon 'Mother of Pearl'
Reaches up to 3.5 x 3 feet, with deep green foliage and small, purplish-pink flowers with red lines and a white throat.
Penstemon 'Pink Chablis'
Dense and compact, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet, with neat glossy rosettes of foliage and profuse mid-pink flowers that repeat bloom if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 3 to 8
Penstemon 'Pink Endurance'
Reaches up to 2 x 1.5 feet, forming a rosette of mid-green leaves topped by
profuse, small, clear-pink, tubular flowers from mid summer to late autumn.
Hardy zones 6 to 8
Penstemon 'Purple Passion'
Reaches up to 3 feet, with intense, violet-purple, bell-shaped flowers.
Penstemon 'Raven'
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with mid-green leaves and large, deep red-purple ( white throat ) flowers.
Penstemon 'Razzle Dazzle'
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet, with narrow, bright green leaves and hot-red flowers.
Penstemon 'Rich Ruby'
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet with bright green leaves and large, deep red to purplish-red flowers with light stamens.
Penstemon 'Ruby'
Vigorous and bushy in habit, reaching up to 3.3 x 2 ( rarely over 2 ) feet in size.
It bears intense deep red, tubular flowers, up to 1.6 inches in length, during late spring, repeating late summer to mid-autumn if cut back after the first flush. the leaves are narrow.
Penstemon 'Snowstorm'
Reaches up to 2.3 feet in height, with pure white, bell-shaped flowers, up to 1.6 inches in length.
The foliage is deep green.
Penstemon 'Sour Grapes' ( Gloxinia Penstemon )
Reaches up to 3 x 2.5 ( rarely over 2.5 ) feet, with abundant, rich mid-purple, large flowers from early summer to mid-autumn.
The large, elliptical leaves are deep green.
Tolerates as low as -40 F.
Penstemon 'Suttons Pink Peddler'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 3 feet, with glossy bright-green leaves and clear pink flowers with a white throat.
Penstemon 'Sweet Grapes'
Compact and heavy flowering, reaching up to 1.5 x 1.5 feet. This hybrid has neat glossy rosettes of foliage and purple flowers that rebloom if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun. Tolerant of poor clay soil.
ADDITIONAL CULTIVARS
https://www.jamesgreenhouses.com/plants/32285/?r=o-r ( Harlequin Magenta Penstemon )
https://www.jamesgreenhouses.com/plants/32289/?r=o-r ( Harlequin Pink Penstemon )
https://www.jamesgreenhouses.com/plants/34218/?r=o-r ( Harlequin Purple Penstemon )
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