Penstemon fruiticosus

Shrubby Penstemon

Plantaginaceae

• Spokane Native
• USDA Zone 4-8
• Full Sun to Part Shade
• Size: 1.5’ x 1.5’
  
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
  
• Evergreen: yes
• Flower Color: blue/light purple (May- August)
• Wildlife Value: hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, moths

Attractive, compact woody shrub with numerous tubular bluish-lavender to light purple flowers growing in rocky, open or wooded areas. This evergreen spreading shrub makes an excellent foundation plant for the middle of the bed or for a low hedge. Height ranges from 6 to 16 inches depending on site conditions.

Short bracteate racemes contain showy flowers 1-1/4 to 2 inches long. The corolla is keeled on the back surface and contains long white hairs on the base of the lower inner lip. Blooms from May through August, providing extended seasonal interest. Leaves vary by variety from narrowly lance-shaped to oblanceolate, with margins that may be entire or toothed.

Highly attractive to pollinators including hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and night moths who visit the flowers for nectar. This spreading shrub provides excellent habitat value and extends the blooming season in native gardens. Historically used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes including treating headaches, colds, sore scalp, acne, toothaches, and bladder problems.

This plant is suitable for dry banks, rock gardens, foundation plantings, perennial borders, and low hedges. It is an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise landscapes. Thrives in well-drained, rocky or sandy soils and grows naturally from British Columbia south to Oregon, and east to Montana and Wyoming. Great for adding structure and evergreen interest while supporting pollinators throughout the growing season.