Broadbeard Beardtongue
Penstemon angustifolius
Last reviewed: July 2026
Broadbeard Beardtongue is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a moderate level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–18" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, KS, MT and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Broadbeard beardtongue is a compact native perennial that produces spikes of tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, or pink from May through July. This drought-tolerant plant forms neat clumps with narrow leaves and maintains a tidy appearance throughout the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Broadbeard Beardtongue is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Dies back completely in winter
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are especially attractive to native bees and butterflies during the late spring and summer blooming period. Its long flowering season provides consistent nectar resources for pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does Broadbeard Beardtongue need?
- Broadbeard Beardtongue grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Broadbeard Beardtongue bloom?
- Broadbeard Beardtongue blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Broadbeard Beardtongue native?
- Broadbeard Beardtongue (Penstemon angustifolius) is native to AZ, CO, KS, MT and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Broadbeard Beardtongue toxic to livestock?
- Broadbeard Beardtongue is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (moderate severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- What pollinators does Broadbeard Beardtongue attract?
- Broadbeard Beardtongue draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Broadbeard Beardtongue HOA-friendly?
- Broadbeard Beardtongue 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 Broadbeard Beardtongue? 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