Whipple's Penstemon (Penstemon whippleanus) is a beautiful penstemon variety that works well in areas where more moisture and fertile soils are required. The foliage is bright green, thinner, and glossier than other penstemon varieties. Attractive flowers appear at the top of the stems in late spring to early summer. These flowers are usually a dark purple, but can also be white, light grey, blue, or wine colored as well. Unlike other penstemons, Whipple's prefers some partial shade and more water. It is less drought tolerant than other varieties and will require regular irrigation. Use as an attractive vertical accent in garden beds and borders, cottage gardens, or the edge of a shade garden.
Whipple's Penstemon
Native to Cache County: Yes
Irrigation Requirement: Low (1/2" every 10-14 days) or Moderate (1/2" every 7-10 days)
Mature Size: 18 - 24" tall and 6 - 12" wide
Spacing: 12" apart
Bloom Colors: Purple (common)/White/Blue
Bloom Season: June - July
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 8
Light Requirement: Full Sun or Partial Shade (preferred for lower elevations)
Deer Resistant: No
Salt Tolerant: Unknown
Soils: Prefers more fertile, loam soils. Will tolerate clay if well-drained.
Plants in the Penstemon family are a host species for 19 known species of native pollinator in the Cache Valley area. Penstemons also provide nectar for several native pollinators.