Penstemon whippleanus (Dusky Penstemon)

Penstemon whippleanus, commonly known as Dusky or Whipple's Penstemon is a native perennial wildflower/forb celebrated for its graceful appearance and showy tubular flowers that are a deep, saturated violet. This wildflower is found in a wide array of habitats, ranging from mountain meadows (most common) to rocky slopes, and coniferous forests.

Dusky Penstemon reaches heights of 12 to 24 inches, with a compact and bushy growth habit, quite similar to Firecracker Penstemon. Its upright stems are lined with alternating lance-shaped leaves, creating an attractive, well-structured plant.

The most striking feature of Penstemon whippleanus is its wide tubular flowers. These flowers, which appear in late spring to early summer, are typically shades of lavender to violet and appear to be sugar coated. As with most Penstemon the flowers attract pollinators of all kinds, mainly bees and hummingbirds. An attractive addition to pollinator gardens.

Dusky Penstemon is a bit more tolerant of higher precipitation zones than other native-to-Utah Penstemon but still requires well-draining soil and prefers rocky soil.

Thrives in full sun to part shade, has extreme cold tolerance and moderate drought tolerance. Is hardy to USDA zones 4-8.

A wonderful addition to wildflower gardens, nativescapes, woodland gardens, permaculture, rockery, adding uncommon deep purples and attracting pollinators. The flowers even have a moderately long vase life.