Garden Oracle / Drought and Heat Tolerant Gardening / Tucson - Phoenix - Arizona - California

Growing Penstemon pseudospectabilis:
Desert Penstemon

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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.



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Penstemon pseudospectabilis: Desert Penstemon

Penstemon pseudospectabilis: Desert Penstemon - seed pods

Latest update: May, 2021
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