Penstemon

(Scrophulariaceae - figwort family)

Beard-tongue. About 250 species of perennial herbs or shrubs, all but one native to N Amer, mostly to the western U.S. Many species are cultivated as ornamentals. Many are also important bee plants in the w U.S. They generally prefer a bit of shade, and not too dry soil.

acuminatus

evgrn peren • ht 1½-2' • zones 3-9

St. Joseph's wand

native, dry - moist, part shade - sun
cent and w US; s cent Canada

The spoon-shaped basal leaves are dark green, glossy, evergreen. Clusters of blue flowers appear on upright stems in summer.

cat # 6I7C
$8.95 each

pinifolius

evgrn peren • ht 8" • zones 5-9

pine-leaved penstemon

rock garden, sun - part shade
sw NM, se AZ, adjacent Mexico

An interesting species with evergreen, conifer-like foliage. Bears tubular, scarlet flowers to 1½" long, in summer. Slow spreader, neat and restrained in growth. Suitable for rock gardens.

cat # 6I7M
$8.95 each