2026 Availability- Expected pickup date is late April or early May
Beardlip Penstemon (Penstemon barbatus) is a true standout in the summer native landscape. Tall spires of tubular scarlet-red flowers rise above narrow, glossy green foliage, creating a dramatic focal point that moves beautifully in the breeze. The vivid blooms begin in early summer and attract hummingbirds, adding motion and life to the garden. Perfect for adding height and a strong pop of warm color, Beardlip Penstemon shines in wildflower borders, dry garden beds, pollinator gardens, Mediterranean style gardens, and prairie gardens. Its upright form provides structure among more mounded plants, while its long bloom period ensures weeks of color in hot, dry sites.
Photo Credit: Bettina Arrigoni
Beardlip Penstemon
Irrigation Requirement: Very Low (Water to Establish) or Low (1/2" every 10-14 days)
Mature Size: 1.5 - 3' tall and 1 - 2' wide is common, but can grow taller.
Spacing: 18 - 24" apart
Bloom Colors: Red
Bloom Season: June - August or September
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 9
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Deer Resistant: Moderately
Salt Tolerant: Somewhat
Soils: Prefers well-draining sand or loam soils.
Plants in the genus Penstemon are known host plants for 19 different pollinators in northern Utah. Beardlip Penstemon also provides nectar and pollen for a variety of native pollinators, including hummingbirds.