Azure Penstemon

(Penstemon azureus)

Azure Penstemon (Penstemon azureus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Penstemon azureus, commonly known as Azure Penstemon, is a perennial herb that is native to the montane and subalpine zones of the Klamath and Cascade Ranges in Oregon and northern California. It typically grows up to 28 inches tall and features linear or lance-shaped leaves. From late spring to early summer, it produces showy clusters of blue to lavender tubular flowers, which are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. Azure Penstemon is adapted to open woodlands and meadows where it thrives in well-drained soils.

Azure Penstemon is appreciated for its ornamental beauty, with its striking blue to lavender flowers making it a popular choice for rock gardens, native plant gardens, and borders. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal water once established and thriving in full sun to light shade. While it prefers well-drained soils, it can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are not waterlogged. Gardeners should be aware that it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. There are no major disease issues, but slugs and snails may occasionally feed on the foliage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Herb
  • Height: 1-1.75 feet
  • Width: 0.6-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Montane and subalpine zones of the Klamath and Cascade Ranges in Oregon and northern California

Other Names

Common Names: Azure Penstemon, Blue Penstemon

Scientific Names: , Penstemon azureus, Penstemon azureus f. jaffrayanus, Penstemon azureus f. jeffreyanus, Penstemon azureus subsp. azureus, Penstemon azureus subsp. typicus, Penstemon glaucifolius, Penstemon heterophyllus var. azureus, Penstemon jaffrayanus, Penstemon jeffreyanus

GBIF Accepted Name: