Snapdragon Penstemon
(Keckiella antirrhinoides)
Snapdragon Penstemon (Keckiella antirrhinoides)
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Photo by Easyscape
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by Easyscape
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | CC BY-SA 4.0
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Keckiella antirrhinoides, commonly known as Snapdragon Penstemon, is a deciduous shrub or subshrub native to chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands in California, as well as desert regions in Arizona and Northwestern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) and a width of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters), featuring an open and spreading habit. The plant is characterized by its woody branches and lance-shaped leaves. During the spring, it produces tubular, snapdragon-like flowers that are light yellow and fade to nearly black as they dry, adding a unique color transition to the landscape.
Snapdragon Penstemon is valued for its drought tolerance and the striking contrast between its yellow flowers and darkening seed pods. It is suitable for xeriscaping, naturalistic plantings, and as an accent in water-wise gardens. This plant thrives under a range of light conditions, from part shade to full sun, and prefers well-drained soils. While it requires low amounts of water once established, it benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Snapdragon Penstemon is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Snapdragon Penstemon is valued for its drought tolerance and the striking contrast between its yellow flowers and darkening seed pods. It is suitable for xeriscaping, naturalistic plantings, and as an accent in water-wise gardens. This plant thrives under a range of light conditions, from part shade to full sun, and prefers well-drained soils. While it requires low amounts of water once established, it benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Snapdragon Penstemon is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 3-6 feet
- Width: 3-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands in California, desert regions in Arizona, and Northwestern Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Chaparral Beardtongue , Yellow Bush Penstemon
Scientific Names: Keckiella antirrhinoides , Keckiella antirrhinoides var. antirrhinoides , Penstemon plummerae
GBIF Accepted Name: Keckiella antirrhinoides (Benth.) Straw