Bush Penstemon
Bush penstemon is a compact subshrub with dark green, succulent-looking leaves. In early summer, it grows short spikes and violet-blue tubular flowers. The leaves tolerate the bright winter sun well, adopting a glossy, rich burgundy color.
Bush penstemon is a native plant found in the northwest mountain states and grows well in rocky soil.
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Bush Penstemon
Bush penstemon is a compact subshrub with dark green, succulent-looking leaves. In early summer, it grows short spikes and violet-blue tubular flowers. The leaves tolerate the bright winter sun well, adopting a glossy, rich burgundy color.
Bush penstemon is a native plant found in the northwest mountain states and grows well in rocky soil.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Penstemon fruticosus
Pronunciation
PEN-stem-on froo-tih-KOH-sus
Mature Height
8 to 18 in.
Mature Spread
12 to 24 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
lilac-purple
Bloom time
late May through mid-June
Colorado Native
No
Natural Habitat
Wyoming to Oregon
Light Requirements
sun, part shade
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-9
Elevation Limit
hardy to 7,000 ft.
Performance
There are a few specimens of bush penstemon at the Water Wise Demonstration Garden that have survived for many years. The flowers are very attractive.
Maintenance
Prune out winterkilled branches as needed.
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