Royal Penstemon
Penstemon speciosus
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Royal Penstemon as toxic to livestock.
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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Royal Penstemon need?
- Royal Penstemon grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Royal Penstemon bloom?
- Royal Penstemon blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Royal Penstemon native?
- Royal Penstemon (Penstemon speciosus) is native to CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Royal Penstemon toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Royal Penstemon as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Royal Penstemon attract?
- Royal Penstemon draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Royal Penstemon HOA-friendly?
- Royal Penstemon 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 Royal Penstemon? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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