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Snapdragon Penstemon

Keckiella antirrhinoides

Last reviewed: June 2026

Keckiella antirrhinoides is a drought-tolerant shrub native to Arizona, California, and Nevada that produces yellow snapdragon-like flowers from April through June, attracting bees and hummingbirds.

Snapdragon Penstemon (Keckiella antirrhinoides)
Photo: Stickpen / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–36" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

AZ, CA, NV

Pollinators

bees, hummingbirds

Snapdragon penstemon is a compact native shrub that produces tubular flowers in spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant plant maintains a neat, rounded form and works well in xeriscape gardens. It requires minimal water once established and thrives in sunny conditions.

Growing Snapdragon Penstemon

Grow Snapdragon Penstemon in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Snapdragon 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 hummingbirds and native bees during the spring blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar sources when many other plants are not yet flowering.

Common questions

Where does Keckiella antirrhinoides naturally grow?
Snapdragon Penstemon is native to the southwestern United States, specifically found in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
When does Keckiella antirrhinoides bloom?
This shrub typically flowers from April through June, producing clusters of tubular yellow flowers.
What pollinators visit Keckiella antirrhinoides?
The tubular flowers of Snapdragon Penstemon attract both bees and hummingbirds, which serve as its primary pollinators.
What growing conditions does Keckiella antirrhinoides prefer?
This drought-adapted shrub thrives in full sun locations with low water requirements, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and native plant gardens.
Is Snapdragon Penstemon HOA-friendly?
Snapdragon 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 Snapdragon Penstemon? 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