Penstemon species (Beard Tongue)

Some penstemon varieties are native to Nevada; however most commercially available types are hybrids. All seem to benefit from full sun, well-drained soil with gravel or sand added, and once to twice weekly watering.

  • Ambigua (Prairie Penstemon) — 2 ft. tall by 2 ft. wide; white or pink flowers from June-September
  • Barbartus (Beardtongue) — 4 ft. tall by 2 ft. wide; red-lavender flowers from June-August
  • Eatonii (Firecracker Penstemon) — 3 ft. tall by 18 in. wide; blue-green leaves; red flowers from June-August
  • Eriantherus (Crested Tongue Penstemon) — 1 ft. tall by 1 ft. wide; gray-green leaves; lilac flowers
  • Hirsutus — 3 ft. tall by 2 ft. wide; dark green leaves; lavender flowers from June-July
  • Newberryi — 10 in. tall by 12 in. wide; dark green leaves; red or pink flowers in June
  • Palmeri — 4 ft. tall by 1 ft. wide; gray-green leaves; pink blooms from June-July
  • Strictus (Rocky Mountain Penstemon) — 2 ft. tall by 2 ft. wide; dark green leaves; purple flowers from June-July
Category:  Perennial
Water Use:  Moderate
Sun Exposure:  Full Sun
Height x Spread:  N/A
Native:  Yes
Color:  White, pink
Bees:  Yes
Birds:  Yes
Butterflies:  No
Cut Flower:  No
Utility Tree:  No
Extra Maintenance:  No
Soil:  N/A
Fall Color:  No
Bloom Time:  Summer