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Hot-rock Penstemon

Penstemon deustus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Hot-rock Penstemon (Penstemon deustus)
Photo: JW Stockert / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Hot-rock Penstemon as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states

Pollinators

bees, hummingbirds

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Hot-rock penstemon is a compact, drought-tolerant perennial that forms neat mounds of evergreen foliage. It produces clusters of tubular white to pale lavender flowers from May through July, creating an attractive display against its small, dense leaves.

In an HOA neighborhood

Hot-rock 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

This native penstemon attracts bees and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich tubular flowers. The long blooming period provides consistent pollinator support through late spring and summer.

Common questions

How much sun does Hot-rock Penstemon need?
Hot-rock Penstemon grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Hot-rock Penstemon bloom?
Hot-rock Penstemon blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Hot-rock Penstemon native?
Hot-rock Penstemon (Penstemon deustus) is native to CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Hot-rock Penstemon toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Hot-rock Penstemon as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Hot-rock Penstemon attract?
Hot-rock Penstemon draws bees and hummingbirds.
Is Hot-rock Penstemon HOA-friendly?
Hot-rock 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 Hot-rock 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