Showy Penstemon is exactly how it sounds. It is the showiest plant in the garden when it is in bloom. I have two and honestly I wish I could have more, but this plant is a bit more finicky than I want for my garden, and that is because it really does like to grow in the hills surrounding Los Angeles and not five miles from the coast, particularly in heavy soil that holds onto moisture like mine.

Plant it if you’re in Pasadena, Altadena, Santa Monica Mountains, or if you have a slope that’s full sun, or if you have fast draining soil. Keep in mind that when it’s not in bloom it’s a bit of a dull plant (we can’t be beautiful all day everyday) so mask it’s out-of-season looks with a plant in front of it. Originally my Penstemon’s were located behind the Palmer’s Mallows, so the Mallows carried the yard when the Penstemon was asleep. When the Penstemon was awake, it was the. highlight of the garden. Plant it with plants that can endure the summer without water since I have definitely killed two of these with too much sumer water. If you’re on drip, considering either removing drip or using a coupler to install blank tubing around it.

In general, if you have the right area for it, it will perform well and the bees will be very thankful. Larger bumblebees adore this plant since they can actually fit into the blossom.

Calscape