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Penstemon spectabilis

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 3'-5'
W: 3'

planting zones

8a-11

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Penstemon spectabilis plant details

Penstemon spectabilis is a broadleaf evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial with green foliage. In spring blue and lavender flowers emerge. Attracts hummingbirds. Grows well with sun and low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Penstemon spectabilis

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: plantaginaceae
Foliage: evergreen or semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 3 FT wide, 3 FT - 5 FT - tall
Flowers: blue and lavender blooms in spring
Uses: border plant, cottage garden, easy-to-grow, rock garden, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Penstemon spectabilis

USDA Zones: 8a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: low
Resistant to: deer, heat and verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Showy penstemon is a short lived evergreen perennial that grows 2' wide with erect stems reaching 3-4' tall. It is one of the most spectacular of the penstemons. Very drought tolerant, occasional water lengthens bloom season but may shorten the plant's lifespan. Prune after blooms to promote new growth. The very showy lavender flowers appear from March to May. It has a somewhat inflated blue purple corolla set off by attractive light green leaves. Native to California and is also found outside of California, but is confined to western North America. Attracts many pollinators including hummingbirds and bees. Native Americans long used penstemon roots to relieve toothache. Found in sandy washes, dry creek beds, hillsides, and coastal bluffs. Communitites located in Coastal Sage Scrub, Chaparral Between 328 and 7874 feet.

By: The Watershed Nursery

Big & gorgeous & carefree! This Penstemon is native to the Los Angeles foothills & south to Baja. To 3’-5’ tall, it bears loads of flaring, lavender-blue flowers April to June. Hardy to 10 °F, it will also tolerate extreme heat. Good drainage is necessary as well as dry conditions in Summer. Other than that, it’s EASY & LONG-LIVED. Hummingbird magnet.