Spring planting doesn’t start when the air feels warm, It...Read More
Palmer’s Penstemon (Penstemon palmeri) is a striking perennial known for its tall spikes of fragrant, pale pink to lavender tubular flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. Thriving in full sun and well-drained, sandy or rocky soils, this drought-tolerant native plant can grow up to 4-5 feet tall, making it a standout in xeriscapes, wildflower gardens, or borders. Its blooms attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, adding ecological value while bringing soft, pastel beauty to arid landscapes. With its captivating flowers and adaptability to dry conditions, Palmer’s Penstemon is an exceptional choice for low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly gardens.
NAME: Penstemon (Penstemon palmeri)
VARIETY: Palmer’s
DAYS TO MATURITY: 100 – 140 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Perennial
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 5 – 9
SUNLIGHT: Full Sun
SOIL: Well-draining sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils with a pH 6.0 – 8.0
PLANT HEIGHT: 3 – 5 feet
SPACING: 18 – 24 inches apart
TEMP: 55 – 95ºF
Palmer’s Penstemon seeds benefit from cold stratification to enhance germination rates. This process simulates natural winter conditions, preparing the seeds for growth.
Steps for Stratification:
To learn more about Stratification, click here!
Starting seeds indoors is generally not necessary for Palmer’s Penstemon, as direct sowing is the preferred method. However, if indoor sowing is desired:
