Beautiful bee butts abound when there are penstemons in the garden – their white, tubular flowers are attractive to many types of pollinators, but their interactions with bee species is especially charming. Flowers are followed by attractive seed heads that can remain up through the winter for visual interest. Like most penstemons, this species has an “evergreen” basal rosette, though this particular cultivar is known for its consistent red foliage color, which becomes even more vibrant in fall.
Beardtongue is a great drought-tolerant option for open sunny spaces. This plant has been known to spread adorable seedlings throughout the garden, including some unexpectedly shady spaces.
Conditions: Full sun; well-drained soils
Size: 3’-5’ tall in bloom; 1’-2’ wide
Zone: 3 – 8
Wildlife Value: Larval host for 10 different species of butterflies and moths in our area; pollen supports specialist bee species
Photo: Dave Korbonits