El Paso Skyrocket

(Ipomopsis thurberi)

El Paso Skyrocket (Ipomopsis thurberi)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Ipomopsis thurberi image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Ipomopsis thurberi, commonly known as El Paso Skyrocket, is a biennial or perennial herb native to open woodlands, grasslands, and oak woodlands in the Southwestern United States, particularly Arizona, and Northern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 0.5-2 feet (0.2-0.6 meters). The plant has a slender form and produces tubular blue to purple flowers that are quite showy, blooming in the summer and extending into fall. The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators, adding ecological value to the garden.

El Paso Skyrocket is appreciated for its vibrant flowers and ability to thrive in dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is often used in wildflower meadows, borders, and as an accent plant in drought-tolerant landscapes. This plant prefers full sun exposure and requires well-drained soils. It is relatively low-maintenance, needing minimal water once established. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 0.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, grasslands, and oak woodlands in the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Thurber Skyrocket

Scientific Names: Ipomopsis thurberi , Gilia thurberi , Collomia thurberi , Navarretia thurberi

GBIF Accepted Name: Ipomopsis thurberi (Torr. ex Gray) V.E.Grant