Desert Penstemon

Desert Penstemon(Penstemon pseudospectabilis)

By Laurie McGrathMany penstemons thrive in difficult conditions; desert penstemon is a stunning example. Found in desert washes, canyons, and open rocky areas of the southwestern United States, at 2,000 to 7,000 feet elevation, as well as in piñon-juniper ecosystems, it is eye-catching when in bloom, with vivid deep pink to magenta flowers and green triangular leaves. It often blooms twice—sometime in the spring, depending on elevation, and again in early summer, with adequate precipitation. The flower stalks rise above the more shrubby base of the plant. I like to think this makes access to the nectar in the tubular flowers easier for the hummingbirds and bees that love it.Desert penstemon has many common names: Mojave penstemon, desert beardtongue, and canyon penstemon, to mention a few. It’s best to rely on the botanical name to be sure you’re getting the plant that lives up to its name. In botanical nomenclature, pseudomeans there is a visually similar plant. But spectabilissays it all. This is indeed a spectacular native penstemon.Planting and care:Desert penstemon should be planted in dry, well-draining soil in full sun. Being quite drought tolerant, it rarely requires supplemental water once established. In fact, care should be taken not to overwater during the first year or two. Deep, occasional watering will help establish a healthy root system. Desert penstemon can be cut back to about four inches in late winter.Landscape use:The plant is good in dry gardens, in hot areas of the landscape near gravel or heat-retaining walls, and in less-tended areas at a distance, where it will provide a splash of vivid color.Propagation:Desert penstemon will reseed but is not invasive. If you gather seed, store it dry until the next year. Spread in the fall, cover with some soil or sand, and let nature take its course. Seed germination is subject to weather conditions, so it will vary from year to year.Plant type:evergreen perennial subshrubBloom time:early spring and early summerSize:12–36 inches x 18 inchesExposure:full sunMoisture:highly drought tolerantSoil:Well-drained and dryZones:5–9Advantages:Low maintenance; attracts hummingbirds; food source for native bees and mothsReferences:American Penstemon Society, Propagation from SeedHorticulture,Desert Beardtongue Attracts Hummingbirds and Hawkmoths(March 2015)SNaPP,A Guide to Native Plants for the Santa Fe Landscape(2018)Southwest Desert Flora, Penstemon pseudospectabilis