Penstemon nitidus

Penstemon nitidus

Penstemon nitidus produces azure flowers—the color of a New Mexico summer sky. Blooms emerge in late April, sometimes covered by late snow, but unbothered. Beautiful gray‑blue foliage; grows 6–10 inches high. Earliest penstemon to bloom; native to northwestern U.S.

Key Features

• Striking azure blue flowers in early spring.
• Gray‑blue foliage; very early bloom.
• Native; low maintenance.

Growing Conditions

Fertile, well‑drained soil; full sun.

Care & Propagation

Softwood cuttings in early summer, semi‑ripe in midsummer, divide in spring. Problems: powdery mildew, rust, leaf spots, Southern blight; slugs/snails on young plants.

Landscape Uses

Beds, borders; rock garden.

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