Penstemon cardinalis

Common Name:
Cardinal beardtongue
Plant Type:
Evergreen perennial
Family:
Plantaginaceae (formerly in Scrophulariaceae)
Geographic Origin:
Southwestern States
California Native?:
No

Plant Size:
20-36 inches
Landscape/Garden Uses:
Mixed plantings
Flowering Season:
Summer

Flower Color:
Red
Exposure:
Full sun
Soils:
Well-drained soil

Suggested Irrigation:
Moderate to occasional watering
Estimated Hardiness:
Hardy to 10 degrees F. or less

This robust native of the Southwest forms sizable clumps. It has crowns of narrow-oval greyish green leaves up to 8 inches long. Wandlike flower stems rise to 30 inches or more in summer, each bearing dozens of 1 inch bright true red, tubular flowers. Easy and tough. Attracts hummingbirds.