Beardlip Penstemon
Penstemon barbatus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, NM and 2 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Beardlip penstemon is a compact perennial wildflower that produces tubular red to pink flowers on upright stems from spring through summer. This drought-tolerant native maintains evergreen foliage year-round and forms neat clumps that work well in desert gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Beardlip Penstemon is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are magnets for hummingbirds and also attract native bees. This plant provides reliable nectar from April through July.
Common questions
- How much sun does Beardlip Penstemon need?
- Beardlip Penstemon grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Beardlip Penstemon bloom?
- Beardlip Penstemon blooms in April, May, June, and July.
- Where is Beardlip Penstemon native?
- Beardlip Penstemon (Penstemon barbatus) is native to AZ, CA, CO, NM and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Beardlip Penstemon attract?
- Beardlip Penstemon draws hummingbirds and bees.
- Is Beardlip Penstemon HOA-friendly?
- Beardlip Penstemon is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Beardlip Penstemon? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz