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.
Plantaginaceae (Plantain family)
Late spring to early summer (May-July), may rebloom in fall if deadheaded
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: mountain prides and wild indigos also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Rocky Mountain Penstemon represents the rugged beauty of the southern Rocky Mountain states. It's a quintessential plant of mountain foothills and one of the most popular native perennials for western gardens. The cultivar 'Bandera' was cooperatively released by New Mexico State University, Colorado State University, and USDA-NRCS. The plant provides fair to good forage for livestock and is an important nectar source for native bumblebees, though hummingbirds only visit occasionally.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours sun for best flowering)
Water
Very low to low once established; drought-tolerant but benefits from spring moisture; avoid overwatering after flowering
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Sandy loam, Adaptable to various soils, Neutral to slightly alkaline
Expert Growing Tips
One of the easiest penstemons to grow and longest-lived
Plant in fall, spacing 12-18 inches apart
Deadhead spent flower stalks to encourage fall reblooming
Evergreen foliage persists through winter
Avoid overwatering, especially after flowering (causes crown rot)
Self-seeds readily but not invasively
Hardy zones 4-9, to 8,000 feet elevation
Released cultivar 'Bandera' more tolerant of clay soils
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Perennial borders and mixed beds
- Rock gardens and xeriscaping
- Native plant gardens
- Hummingbird and pollinator gardens
- Erosion control and soil stabilization
- Mass plantings for color impact
- Cut flowers
Traditional Uses
- Not known for medicinal uses; primarily ornamental and ecological value
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rocky Mountain Penstemon
Is Rocky Mountain penstemon easy to grow?
Yes! Rocky Mountain Penstemon is one of the easiest and most reliable penstemons to grow. It's long-lived, drought-tolerant, and adaptable to various soils, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens.
Do hummingbirds like Rocky Mountain penstemon?
Rocky Mountain Penstemon attracts hummingbirds, though they visit less frequently than other penstemon species. It's primarily pollinated by native bumblebees and other wild bees.
Will Rocky Mountain penstemon bloom twice?
Yes, if you deadhead spent flower stalks after the first bloom in late spring, Rocky Mountain Penstemon will often rebloom in fall with a second flush of flowers.
Is Rocky Mountain penstemon evergreen?
Yes, Rocky Mountain Penstemon has semi-evergreen to evergreen basal foliage that persists through winter as low clumps of leathery dark green leaves.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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