Tushar Penstemon (Penstemon tusharensis or Penstemon xylus) is a petite, mat‑forming perennial endemic to Utah’s high‑elevation Tushar Mountains. Tushar Penstemon is prized for its striking lavender‑blue blooms in June and July and its evergreen, steel‑blue foliage that adds winter interest. Growing just 3–6 inches tall, this tiny powerhouse thrives in full sun and the gritty, well‑drained, dry soils typical of Utah’s foothills and alpine areas. Use Tushar Penstemon in the front of dry garden beds and borders, rock gardens, pollinator gardens, or as a native groundcover. Tushar Penstemon brings a beautiful accent to native landscapes throughout Utah—functional, beautiful, and uniquely local.
Tushar Penstemon
Irrigation Requirement: Very Low (Water to Establish) or Low (1/2" every 10-14 days or more)
Mature Size: 3 - 6" tall and 15 - 18" wide
Spacing: 12" apart
Bloom Colors: Blue/Purple
Bloom Season: June - July
Hardiness Zone: 5 - 8
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Unknown
Soils: Adaptable to well-drained sandy or loam soils. Not recommended for clay unless amended for improved drainage.
Plants in the Penstemon genus are known host plants for 19 pollinators in northern Utah. Penstemon also provide nectar and pollen for a variety of native pollinators.