Mountain Pride
Penstemon newberryi
A stunning alpine wildflower native to the Sierra Nevada mountains, forming low mats adorned with vibrant magenta tubular flowers. Beloved by hummingbirds and mountain hikers alike.
Plantaginaceae (Plantain family)
Late spring to midsummer (May-July), depending on elevation and snowmelt
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: rocky mountain penstemons and wild indigos also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Named after American geologist and botanist John Strong Newberry (1822-1892), who explored the western United States. The plant embodies the rugged beauty of high Sierra Nevada landscapes where it thrives between granite boulders at elevations of 5,000-9,000 feet. It's an important nectar source for hummingbirds and native bees in alpine ecosystems.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun at elevation
Water
Moderate moisture during growing season; excellent drainage essential; drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Granitic, Sandy, Poor soil tolerant, Slightly acidic (pH 5-7)
Expert Growing Tips
Requires excellent drainage to prevent root rot
Best suited for rock gardens with gritty, fast-draining soil
Plant in spring after last frost
Mulch with gravel or small stones rather than organic mulch
Stratify seeds for 2 months at cold temperatures for germination
Protect from winter wet in lowland gardens
Winner of Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Rock gardens and alpine gardens
- Stone walls and crevices
- Xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscapes
- Native plant gardens
- Hummingbird gardens
- Ground cover on slopes
Traditional Uses
- Not known for medicinal uses; primarily ornamental
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Mountain Pride
Where does mountain pride grow naturally?
Mountain Pride grows naturally in the Sierra Nevada and southern Cascade mountains at elevations of 5,000-9,000 feet, typically on rocky outcrops, talus slopes, and granite scree.
How do you grow mountain pride penstemon?
Mountain Pride requires excellent drainage, full sun, and rocky or sandy soil. Plant in rock gardens with gritty soil and protect from winter wet in lowland areas.
Do hummingbirds like mountain pride?
Yes! Mountain Pride is an important nectar source for hummingbirds and native bumblebees in alpine habitats. The tubular magenta flowers are perfectly designed for hummingbird pollination.
Is mountain pride hard to grow?
Mountain Pride can be challenging outside its native alpine habitat. It needs very good drainage, cool nights, and protection from winter moisture to thrive in lowland gardens.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Penstemon strictus
One of the most reliable and long-lived native penstemons with stunning spikes of royal blue-purple flowers. Features evergreen basal foliage and is beloved by hummingbirds and native bees.
Wild Indigo
Baptisia australis
Wild Indigo is a robust native perennial with spikes of indigo-blue pea-like flowers and attractive blue-green foliage. Long-lived and low-maintenance, it produces dramatic black seed pods and was historically used as a blue dye substitute.
Callirhoe
Callirhoe involucrata (and other spp.)
Callirhoe, commonly known as Purple Poppy Mallow or Winecups, is a trailing prairie wildflower with vibrant magenta cup-shaped flowers. It symbolizes resilience, beauty, and the enduring spirit of the prairie.