James' Beardtongue
Penstemon jamesii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–16" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CO, KS, NM, TX
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
James' beardtongue is a compact native perennial that forms neat clumps of gray-green foliage. It produces delicate tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white from late spring through summer, creating an attractive low-maintenance groundcover.
In an HOA neighborhood
James' 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 in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
This plant is excellent for supporting native bees and attracts hummingbirds with its tubular flowers. It provides important nectar sources during its long blooming period from May through July.
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 James' Beardtongue fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.