Royal Penstemon
Penstemon speciosus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Royal penstemon produces tall spikes of vibrant blue-purple tubular flowers from June through August. This drought-tolerant native perennial forms compact clumps with narrow green leaves that die back in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Royal Penstemon is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes completely dormant in winter
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are especially attractive to hummingbirds and native bees. This is an important nectar source during the mid-summer bloom period.
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 Royal Penstemon fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.