12 - 36 in.
Perennial
Native or Introduced:Native
Season:Elevation:
ft.
Precipitation:Low - Moderate
Average
Moderately Coarse:Best
Medium:Best
Moderately Fine:Marginal
Fine:Not Adapted
Not Adapted
Neutral:Best
Basic:Not Adapted
Seeding Rate:1 - 3 PLS lbs/Acre
32.70 lbs.
Seeds per Pound:592,000
Germination Time:Days
Blooming Season:Summer
Yes
Bloom Color:Blue - Violet
Beautiful flowers and semi-evergreen rosettes are attractive for ornamental use. Additionally, Bandera’s fibrous root system and ability to persist on rocky or sandy loam sites has made it a popular choice to include in reclamation seed mixes. (Released 1973, source of ecotype: Mountainair, NM)
Rocky Mountain Penstemon is a long-living evergreen perennial with beautiful bluish, violet flowers that grow 3ft tall. Many things will stand out to you about this plant when you grow it in your garden: The first thing everyone notices is the beautiful purple flowers rising from the ground in full bloom.
Although the violet flowers grow on all sides of the plant, they primarily collect on one side during their full bloom. This wrapping technique gives these plants a unique facade which is why many people call these plants beardtongue.
This bunching plant is native to the Western United States and thrives in harsh conditions. Even when faced with the fiercest heat and little to no precipitation, the Rocky Mountain Penstemon will grow to 3ft tall against all adversity.
Even rocky soil can’t stop this plant, so it’s perfect for arid conditions.
Whether the low maintenance or the beautiful landscape attracts you to this plant, you should be aware that it has some growing preferences. Yes, this plant is easy to grow, but like other native species, it does better in specific conditions conducive to its nature.
Before buying some seeds, ensure you can provide the following conditions to get the most out of your garden:
If you can offer these conditions, you’ll experience a beautiful addition to your garden with minimal effort.
The Rocky Mountain Penstemon is more than just a beautiful plant: It serves many purposes and has excellent benefits that attract biodiversity, aid in erosion control, and provide beautification wherever it’s planted.
Because of their sweet nectar, these plants attract all kinds of bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, so get ready for a beautiful nature show during the summer. These little creatures love the protection of the dark green leaves and the aroma of the beautiful flowers.
But don’t worry — it won’t attract animals that can harm your plants. For example, the sharper buds and thorns of the Rocky Mountain beardtongue are a perfect rabbit-resistant feature.
Penstemon species are also excellent at erosion control because their fibrous roots hold the top soil layers in place. This evergreen foliage has multiple root divisions that secure the rocky soils of your property, providing a haven for fertile soil against winds and rain.
This plant is beautiful and will steal the show, but the purple bloom time doesn’t last very long. After a few months, the flower dies. But the good news is that your beautiful plant will come in full bloom every summer.
With plenty of natural sunlight and minimal water, the Penstemon strictus makes an excellent addition to any garden. Chat with one of our experts or buy your Rocky Mountain blend today.
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