Description
Form: Herb or subshrub.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate to rapid.
Mature Size: 2-4' high and 2' wide.
Flowers: Magenta or pink, tubular, 0.75" long, arrayed in spikes.
Bloom: Spring.
Fruit: Seed capsule.
Leaves: Green, boat-shaped, surrounding stem, toothed edges, may turn magenta during drought
after seed production.
Stems: No thorns.
Wildlife: Attracts hummingbirds.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: Arizona, California and Mexico.
Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 5-10.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade. Best in part shade.
Water once established: Monthly at most. It needs only small amounts of water once established
and is intolerant of frequent watering.
Soil: Well drained, dry, low organic content, pH 6.1-8.5 (slightly acidic to alkaline).
Mulch: Decomposed granite or small gravel.
Prune: After the last freeze, remove winter damage. Removing spent stalks after flowering may
extend blooming.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed sown in the fall or stratified one month and sown in the spring.
Uses: Ornamental, hummingbird garden, xeric garden.
Comments
This plant is a member of the Penstemon and Plantain family (Plantaginaceae). Other common names are Canyon
Penstemon and Arizona Penstemon. Do not overwater or this plant will die.
Do you have additional information or a different experience for these plants that you would
like to share? Email info@GardenOracle.com. All contributions are welcome and appreciated.