Plant Description

Penstemon ovatus

Broadleaf Penstemon is a deer-resistant wildflower with bright purplish-blue flowers. It is long-lived and attracts many native pollinators, including bumblebees.

A close up photos of the bright blue flowers of broadleaf penstemon.

A close-up of Broadleaf Penstemon in bloom.

PLANT CHARACTERISTICS

Characteristic Plant Information
Height Up to 2.5 ft
Growth Rate Moderate
Life Cycle Perennial
Moisture Use Low
Drought Tolerance High
Deer Browse No
Wildlife Value Good for insect pollinators
Hardiness USDA Zones 4-7
Bloom Time May-June
Bloom Color Blue, Purple, or Both
Habitat Type Dry meadows/prairies

SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION

Classification Scientific Name
Kingdom Plantae
Clade Angiosperms
Clade Eudicots
Order Lamiales
Family Plantaginaceae
Genus Penstemon
Species P. ovatus

Planting information

Sun

Full sun to some shade

Soil

Dry, rocky soils

Special Uses

Great for pollinators; grows well on dry hillsides and open areas

Ease of Care

Easy

PLANT IMAGES