Perennial- Desert Penstemon
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Common Name: Desert Penstemon
Botanical Name: Penstemon baccharifolius
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Description: Shrubby perennial native to the Arizona Sonoran Desert, plains, hills, scrub, and grassland
Sun: Full or part sun
Water: Twice per month once established
Soil: Prefers well drained soil types, sand, loam, gravel mixtures, or limestone
Habit and form: Grows to 2 feet wide and 2 feet high. Contains dark-green leaves that are thick, toothed, and sometimes very hairy. Flower stalks lined with clustered spikes of tubular flowers
Flower type: Tubular
Flower color & bloom season: Small, cherry red flowers; blooms summer to early fall
Uses, if any, for plant and/or flowers: Attractive to hummingbirds and pollinators; deer will browse this plant
Pruning time & method: Can be cut back to maintain a dense, bushy shape.
Maintenance tips: Good drainage is critical to avoid root rot. Protection from direct west sun is helpful. Avoid overwatering.
