Nodding Beardtongue
Penstemon laxiflorus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, LA, MS and 2 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Nodding Beardtongue is a compact native perennial that produces drooping tubular flowers in spring. This drought-tolerant wildflower forms neat clumps and goes dormant in summer heat, returning with cooler fall weather.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nodding Beardtongue is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and native bees during the spring blooming period. This native penstemon provides important early-season nectar when few other plants are flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does Nodding Beardtongue need?
- Nodding Beardtongue grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Nodding Beardtongue bloom?
- Nodding Beardtongue blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Nodding Beardtongue native?
- Nodding Beardtongue (Penstemon laxiflorus) is native to AL, AR, LA, MS and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Nodding Beardtongue attract?
- Nodding Beardtongue draws butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and nectar insects.
- Is Nodding Beardtongue HOA-friendly?
- Nodding 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.
Does Nodding Beardtongue fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.