Description
Form: Herb.
Lifespan: 4-5 years.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Rapid.
Mature Size: The flower stems reach 3-6' high depending on growing conditions.
Flowers: Reddish-pink to white, broadly tubular with large mouths, bearded bottom stamen, in
a long, narrow cluster on stem, very fragrant.
Bloom: Spring.
Fruit: Seed capsule.
Leaves: Blue-green, triangular, and depending on subspecies, possibly boat-shaped surrounding stem,
possibly serrated margins.
Stems: No thorns.
Roots: Taproot.
Wildlife: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and bees. Browsed by mammals and should be protected
by fencing for the first two years.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: Western North America.
Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 4-9.
Heat tolerant: Yes, once established.
Drought tolerant: Yes, once established.
Sun: Full sun to light shade.
Water once established: Once or twice a month. Do not overwater.
Soil: Well drained, dry, low in organic content, pH 6.6-8.5 (neutral to alkaline). This plant is
only moderately salt-tolerant. Decomposed granite or crushed volcanic cinders are the only fertilizers
it should receive.
First Year Care: In full sun, mulch using decomposed granite and/or pea gravel and water lightly
each day, especially when blooming, to establish an extensive root system. Do not overwater.
Prune: Remove dead leaves and flower stalks after the seed capsules have dried.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed planted in fall; half-woody cuttings taken in summer.
Uses: Ornamental, hummingbird garden, xeric garden.
Comments
This plant is a member of the Penstemon and Plantain family (Plantaginaceae).
It is one of the few fragrant penstemons and is fairly easy to grow when conditions are right.
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.