Rocky Mountain penstemon is an upright perennial that forms a mat of glossy green leaves from which arise straight, 2-foot-tall stems bearing rich purple blooms. It flowers in early June and occasionally throughout the summer. Blooms contrast nicely with yellow-blooming plants.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsNative from Wyoming to Arizona.
CareGrow in full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil.
PropagationTake softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer. Divide in spring. Evergreen foliage spreads rapidly, so rooted stems can be divided from the outer edges of a clump.
ProblemsPowdery mildew, rust, leaf spots, and Southern blight. Slugs and snails may damage young plants.
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- Genus : Penstemon
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Characteristics : Showy Foliage
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
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