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Rocky Ledge Penstemon

Penstemon ellipticus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Rocky Ledge Penstemon (Penstemon ellipticus)
Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Toxicity unknown

Rocky Ledge Penstemon (Penstemon ellipticus) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–12" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

ID, MT, WA

Pollinators

bees, hummingbirds

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Rocky ledge penstemon is a compact native perennial that forms neat, low mounds perfect for rock gardens and dry areas. It produces tubular flowers in summer that add vibrant color while requiring minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Rocky Ledge 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

The tubular flowers attract both bees and hummingbirds during the summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar sources for pollinators in dry garden areas.

Common questions

How much sun does Rocky Ledge Penstemon need?
Rocky Ledge Penstemon grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Rocky Ledge Penstemon bloom?
Rocky Ledge Penstemon blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Rocky Ledge Penstemon native?
Rocky Ledge Penstemon (Penstemon ellipticus) is native to ID, MT, WA, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Rocky Ledge Penstemon attract?
Rocky Ledge Penstemon draws bees and hummingbirds.
Is Rocky Ledge Penstemon HOA-friendly?
Rocky Ledge Penstemon is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Rocky Ledge Penstemon? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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