Gairdner's Beardtongue
Penstemon gairdneri
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
ID, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Gairdner's beardtongue is a compact native perennial with tubular purple or blue flowers that bloom from May through July. This drought-tolerant plant forms neat clumps and requires minimal water once established, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Gairdner's Beardtongue 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 particularly attractive to hummingbirds and native bees. This plant provides important nectar during late spring and early summer when many pollinators are most active.
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.
Does Gairdner's Beardtongue fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.