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.
Common questions
- How much sun does James' Beardtongue need?
- James' Beardtongue grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does James' Beardtongue bloom?
- James' Beardtongue blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is James' Beardtongue native?
- James' Beardtongue (Penstemon jamesii) is native to CO, KS, NM, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does James' Beardtongue attract?
- James' Beardtongue draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is James' Beardtongue HOA-friendly?
- James' 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 James' 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