All flowers
Foothill Penstemon Wikimedia Commons
Plantaginaceae

Foothill Penstemon

Penstemon heterophyllus

Resilience in adversity.

Family
Plantaginaceae
Genus
Penstemon
Native to
California
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
Herbaceous perennial
Height
1-2 feet
Sunlight
Full sun
Soil
Well-drained, sandy
Water
Low
Hardiness
6-10
Lifespan
Perennial

Did you know

  • Foothill penstemon's tubular flowers are perfectly shaped for hummingbird pollination.
  • The species name 'heterophyllus' means 'different leaves,' referring to the varying leaf shapes on the plant.
  • This California native is extremely drought-tolerant once established, needing almost no summer water.
  • The flowers change color as they age, shifting from blue-purple to pinkish tones.
  • Penstemon is the largest genus of flowering plants endemic to North America with over 250 species.

Color meanings

0

Endurance

1

Wild beauty

2

Independence

Uses

  • Native garden
  • Drought-tolerant landscaping
  • Pollinator garden
  • Rock garden