Penstemon heterophyllus Lindl.

Growth Form

Penstemon heterophyllus Lindl. is a perennial herb that grows upright, branching stems that easily reach over one meter in height, with bases that become woody.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves vary in shape and can grow to nearly 10 centimeters long.

Inflorescence and Flowers

The inflorescence bears several wide-mouthed tubular flowers that can be up to 4 centimeters long, with flower color ranging from shades of blue and purple to nearly magenta.

Ornamental Cultivation

Penstemon heterophyllus is cultivated as an ornamental plant by plant nurseries.

Landscape Uses

It is used as a flowering perennial in traditional flower beds, native plant gardens, drought-tolerant gardens, habitat gardens, and public landscapes.

Ecological Role

It acts as a nectar source for native birds and butterflies.

Cultivar Development

Several cultivars have been selected for distinct flower color and plant form, suited for use in Mediterranean climate and other low-water-use gardens.

Named Cultivars

The known cultivars are Penstemon heterophyllus 'Electric Blue' with intense blue flowers, Penstemon heterophyllus 'Margarita BOP' with sky blue to reddish purple flowers, and Penstemon heterophyllus 'Blue Springs' with bright blue flowers.