The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Dew flower

Penstemon cobaea

PEN-steh-mon koe-BAY-ah

Penstemon cobaea has shiny dark green leaves and purple, pink, or white flowers on spike-like panicles in mid-spring. It grows to 2.5 feet tall. The flowers are larger than most other penstemons. Dew flower is native to the Lower Plains and the southwestern U.S.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsUse in sunny borders, rock gardens, native plant gardens, and wild gardens.

CareGrow in full sun and well-drained soil.

PropagationTake softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer. Divide in spring.

ProblemsPowdery mildew, rust, leaf spots, and Southern blight. Slugs and snails may damage young plants.

  • Genus : Penstemon
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Flower Color : Pink, White
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members

Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.

Start Free Trial

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide