Sulphur Beardtongue
Penstemon attenuatus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
ID, MT, OR, WA and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Penstemon attenuatus is a compact native perennial that produces tubular purple-blue flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant plant maintains its foliage year-round and forms neat clumps that work well in organized garden settings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sulphur Beardtongue 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 are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and native bees during the summer blooming period.
Common questions
- How much sun does Sulphur Beardtongue need?
- Sulphur Beardtongue grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Sulphur Beardtongue bloom?
- Sulphur Beardtongue blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Sulphur Beardtongue native?
- Sulphur Beardtongue (Penstemon attenuatus) is native to ID, MT, OR, WA and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Sulphur Beardtongue attract?
- Sulphur Beardtongue draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Sulphur Beardtongue HOA-friendly?
- Sulphur 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.
Ready to grow Sulphur Beardtongue? 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