Penstemon Watsonii

Watson’s beardtongue is a western North American perennial with upright stems, clasping green leaves and clustered blue, violet or purple flowers. Fine red-purple nectar guides lead into the pale throat, where sparse white hairs and a golden-bearded staminode add close-up detail. Native to rocky slopes, open meadows and mountain country, it combines strong cold tolerance with drought resistance once established. The vivid summer flowers attract bees and hummingbirds and make an excellent naturalistic display in a sunny gravel garden with lean, sharply drained soil.