Pick the Right Penstemon for Your Climate

Penstemons are a diverse genus with species adapted to specific climates. Choosing the right type for your region ensures success. Here's a breakdown by growing conditions.

For Hot, Dry Summers and Cold Winters (Hardy to Zone 2b)

These flashy, hummingbird-favored species insist on dry conditions and hot summers. Not long-lived (3–5 years). Bloom midseason (late spring/early summer) unless noted.

Brightly Colored Flowers

• P. barbatus – Red-orange, 3–5 ft. Selections: 'Elfin Pink' (18 in.), 'Schooley's Yellow'.
• P. cardinalis – Burgundy, 2 ft.
• P. clutei – Rose pink, 3 ft., waxy blue-gray foliage.
• P. eatonii – Red-orange, early, 3 ft.
• P. floridus – Bright pink, 3–4 ft.
• P. grandiflorus – Large lavender, pink, or white flowers, 2–3 ft., blue-gray foliage. Selections: Prairie Jewel, 'Prairie Snow', War Axe.
• P. palmeri – Very large pale pink, 3–6 ft., blue foliage.
• P. pseudospectabilis – Magenta, 2–4 ft.
• P. rostriflorus – Red-orange, late, 2–3 ft., somewhat shrubby.
• P. utahensis – Coral red, 1–2 ft.
• P. virgatus – Lavender, 2 ft.

True Blue Flowers

Some of the best blues in the plant kingdom. Hardy to zone 2b (most to zone 1). Prefer dry soil, cool nights, low humidity. Bloom several weeks at midseason.

• P. cyananthus (Wasatch penstemon) – Bright medium blue, 18–24 in. Zone 1.
• P. glaber – Large bright medium blue, 18–30 in. Zone 1.
• P. mensarum (Grand Mesa penstemon) – Cobalt blue, 15–20 in. Zone 2a.
• P. neomexicanus (New Mexico penstemon) – Indigo blue, 2 ft.
• P. speciosus – Bright medium blue, 15–30 in.
• P. strictus (Rocky Mountain penstemon) – Indigo blue, 2 ft. Zone 1.
• P. virens (blue mist penstemon) – Sky blue, 10–15 in. Zone 1. Tolerates more moisture and light shade.

For Hot, Dry Areas with Mild Winters

Native to southern AZ, CA, and Mexico. Thick, waxy foliage. Need heat; not winter-hardy in intermountain regions. 3–5 year lifespan. Most attract hummingbirds.

• P. centranthifolius – Red, early to mid, 4–5 ft., long bloom.
• P. clevelandii – Rose pink, early, 2–3 ft.
• P. parryi – Rose pink, early, 3–4 ft.
• P. spectabilis – Indigo blue, early, 4–5 ft.
• P. superbus – Red, early, 5–6 ft.

Low-Growing Species (Under 1 ft., Hardy to Zone 2b)

Attractive evergreen foliage, mounding or mat-forming. Bloom midseason unless noted.

• P. californicus – Deep purple, silver foliage. Needs hot, dry conditions.
• P. crandallii – Medium blue. Dry conditions, cool climates.
• P. davidsonii davidsonii – Purple. Cool climates, protect from winter wind.
• P. hirsutus 'Pygmaeus' – Pale lavender. Tolerates light shade.
• P. linarioides coloradoensis – Lavender blue, gray foliage. Dry conditions.
• P. pinifolius (pineleaf penstemon) – Red, orange, or yellow. Long blooming.
• P. procerus tolmiei – Blue, lavender, pink, or yellow.
• P. procumbens – Blue, early. Dry conditions.
• P. rupicola – Rose red. Cool climates, protect from winter wind.
• P. teucrioides – Light blue. Dry conditions.

Colorful Hybrids for Coastal Areas

Garden/European hybrids. Best in coastal climates; dislike intense heat; not reliably cold-hardy inland. Short-lived but darker-flowered selections last longer. Need regular water in growing season and autumn. Typically 18–30 in. tall, late bloom.

• Bright reds: 'Firebird', 'Flame', 'Razzle Dazzle', 'Red Ace', 'Scarlet Queen'
• Dark reds: 'Blackbird', 'Burgundy', 'Garnet', 'Port Wine'
• Pink and rose: 'Evelyn', 'Hidcote Pink', 'Lynette', 'Patio Pink', 'Pennington Gem', 'Pink Endurance', 'Wisley Pink'
• Purple: 'Hidcote Purple', 'Midnight', 'Papal Purple', 'Purple Tiger', 'Raven'
• Blue or lavender: 'Alice Hindley', 'Knightwick', 'Sour Grapes', 'Stapleford Gem'
• Color blends: 'Astley', 'Mother of Pearl', 'Raspberry Flair'

Match the penstemon to your climate, and you'll be rewarded with stunning, hummingbird-friendly blooms.