Foothill Penstemon

Tue, 08/25/2009 - 3:46pm — Kathy Ormiston

Photo Credit:

Marianne Mueller, PADG

Botanical Name:

Penstemon 'Margarita BOP'

Pronunciation:

(PEN-steh-mon)

Common Name:

Foothill Penstemon

Plant Type:

Perennial

Mature Size:

1 ft. to 2 ft. wide, 2 ft. to 3 ft. tall

Water Requirements:

Very Low: water deeply several times a summer

Sun/Shade Requirements:

Full to half sun

Flower Color :

Blend of blue, purple and pink

Wildlife:

Attracts hummingbirds

This is a very reliable, long-blooming California native that thrives in the Palo Alto Demonastration Garden's native plant border. Penstemon 'Margarita BOP' is a UC Davis All-Star because it does well in average garden conditions. Unlike many other California native plants, Foothill penstemon can tolerate some summer water.

The bright blue flowers on these plants are stunning and last well into late summer, especially if deadheaded regularly.