Penstemon speciosus

Also Known As

Royal Beardtongue
Royal Penstemon
Sagebrush Penstemon
Showy Penstemon

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 2'
W: 2'

planting zones

5a-10b

More Options

Penstemon speciosus plant details

Penstemon speciosus is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In spring and summer blue flowers emerge. Attracts bees, beneficial insects, birds and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Does well in average, clay and gritty soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Penstemon speciosus

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: plantaginaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 2 FT wide, 2 FT tall
Flowers: blue blooms in spring and summer
Uses: border plant, container plant, native plant, rock garden

GROWING CONDITIONS for Penstemon speciosus

USDA Zones: 5a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, clay and gritty

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Royal penstemon is a 2' deciduous perennial It likes full sun, good drainage, and little water. This is a drought tolerant, showy border plant abundant along the east side of the Sierra from between Mojave and Tehachapi to Mono Lake. The profuse 1-2" sky blue flowers appear May-July. Suitable both in the ground and in containers. An excellent choice for the hot interior. Do not water after the first summer. Native to California and is also found outside of California, but is confined to western North America. Can be used for wildlife habitat enhancement. Its showy flowers attract numerous pollinators and other insects that provide a food source for birds and other small mammals. Native Americans long used penstemon roots to relieve toothache. Found in dry rocky sites. Communitites located in Sagebrush Scrub, Yellow Pine Forest, Red Fir Forest Between 0 and 10400 feet.