Penstemon fruticosus

Common Names

Shrubby Penstemon, Bush Penstemon, Shrubby Beardtongue, Littleleaf Bush Penstemon, Sawleaf Bush Penstemon, Buskhatt, Bush Beardtongue, Lewis's Penstemon, Thick-Leaved Penstemon

Summary

Shrubby penstemon is a semi-evergreen, low shrub-like perennial native to western North America, forming clumps with ascending stems. It has dark-green opposite leaves and blue to lavender, tubular flowers arranged in crowded clusters at stem ends, blooming May–August. The plant reaches roughly 6 inches to 2 feet tall and spreads about 1–2 feet wide, with a woody base contributing to a bushy, compact habit.

Cultivation favors full sun to light shade and well-drained, rocky soils; drought tolerance is noted with medium water use and medium CaCO3 tolerance. Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Long-lived and capable of resprouting after disturbance; maintenance is minimal. Landscape uses include foundation plantings, rock gardens, and edging or low hedges, with flowers attractive to hummingbirds and native bees.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

6-18 inches

Spread

15-24 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5a-9b

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun; tolerates partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained, rocky soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

6.0-8.0

Bloom Color

Lavender to blue-purple

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Moderate growth (with supplemental water)

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, Attracts hummingbirds, Attracts butterflies