Southwestern Penstemon (Penstemon laevis) is an elegant and showy penstemon that brings a beautiful vertical accent to the garden with tall stems of vivid lavender-blue to purple, tubular flowers rising above smooth, blue-green foliage. Blooming in late spring to early summer, its rich flower color creates a striking contrast against grasses and silver-foliaged plants, while its upright form adds structure without feeling heavy. This adaptable native is especially well suited to sunny and hot water-wise garden beds and borders, rock gardens, and naturalistic plantings where its bold blooms can stand out among softer textures. The tubular flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds, native bees, and other pollinators.  
Photo Credit: Donnie Barnett