How to Grow and Care for Penstemon Flowers

How to Grow and Care for Penstemon Flowers

Penstemon gloxiniodes

Gardeners and hummingbirds alike adore penstemon. These trumpet-shaped blooms act as magnets for hummingbirds, making them a favorite for wildlife-friendly gardens. Native to the hills and mountain regions of California, penstemon encompasses a couple hundred species.

Penstemon is a highly attractive, popular perennial. Its trumpet-shaped flowers bloom in shades of white, red, pink, purple, and lavender. When in bloom, they'll draw hummingbirds right to your yard and flower beds. The most popular varieties reach 24–30 inches tall and look superb in beds and borders. Plant them within view of a window or deck so you can enjoy watching the hummingbirds visit.

Penstemon also makes excellent cut flowers.

Plant Height: 24″ – 30″

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Plant Propagation

Penstemon grows from seeds. Sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Alternatively, start them indoors. These small seeds should be placed on the surface of loose soil and watered in lightly.

Penstemon can also be propagated by rhizomes. We recommend digging up and dividing plants every 3–5 years. Simply lift mature rhizomes and replant them. Share extras with gardening friends!

Days to Germination: 7–14

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How to Grow Penstemon Flowers

Penstemon is easy to grow. It prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Well-drained soil is essential—these plants thrive in loose, gravelly soil and do best in raised beds or on hillsides and slopes.

Fertilizing isn't necessary; it encourages foliage at the expense of blooms. Space or thin plants to about 18 inches apart.

Water during dry periods. Roots don't grow deeply, so water to a depth of 3–4 inches. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Add a general-purpose fertilizer at planting and every 4–6 weeks during the season. Switch to a high-phosphorus formula just before the blooming period.

Keep the area weeded while plants are young.

Cut spikes when in full bloom for vases, or leave them to attract hummingbirds. After blooming, cut back spent flower spikes to promote reblooming.

At season's end, cut plants back. In colder regions, add a layer of mulch to protect rhizomes over winter.

Flowers Bloom: Summer through Fall

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