Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Rocky Mountain penstemon is a native perennial flower. It has an upright form and broad, dark green leaves that lay very close to the ground.
The sturdy funnel-shaped flowers of royal blue-purple are borne on one side of a spike. The beautiful flowers may last up to a month.
One of the easiest wildflowers to grow, this native plant is a good addition to low water gardens in the Pikes Peak area. It tolerates many different types of soil and is a vigorous, easy-care plant.
Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Rocky Mountain penstemon is a native perennial flower. It has an upright form and broad, dark green leaves that lay very close to the ground.
The sturdy funnel-shaped flowers of royal blue-purple are borne on one side of a spike. The beautiful flowers may last up to a month.
One of the easiest wildflowers to grow, this native plant is a good addition to low water gardens in the Pikes Peak area. It tolerates many different types of soil and is a vigorous, easy-care plant.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Penstemon strictus
Pronunciation
PEN-stem-on STRIK-tus
Mature Height
18 to 24 in.
Mature Spread
12 to 18 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
purple
Bloom time
May to June
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
southwestern United States
Light Requirements
sun to part shade
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 8,000 ft.
Performance
At the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden, this penstemon has spread to several different gardens. At full bloom, the flowers are quite beautiful and are a favorite of garden visitors.
This plant will spread easily by seed. Once the flowers are finished blooming, it's important to cut of the flower stalks to keep them from spreading too much.
Maintenance
Cut flower stalks down to the mat of leaves after flowering to keep the plant attractive and to minimize reseeding.