Plant Highlights

It’s hard to believe this lush, flowery native finds its home in the mountain desert and creosote bush scrub, since it adapts so well to a garden setting. Just don’t overwater this gorgeous penstemon, it prefers dry, gravelly or rocky soil and medium to excellent drainage, effortlessly standing up to arid summer heat. In spring and summer, Desert penstemon offers up bright reddish pink blooms on long 3’ stalks, the perfect tubular shape for hungry hummingbirds and butterflies. This native perennial grows to be about 2’ to 3’ tall and 2’ wide, with regularly spaced semi glossy green leaves that clasp the stems. Cut back the dead flower heads to encourage more blooms and a bushier growth. Desert penstemon is a favorite for wildlife, and a dazzling addition to any rock garden.