Superb penstemon
Penstemon superbus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AZ, NM
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
An evergreen perennial forb with a basal rosette of leathery leaves and tall spikes of vivid coral-red, tubular flowers in spring. Highly drought tolerant and well suited to lean, fast-draining soil in full sun, providing a striking splash of seasonal color.
In an HOA neighborhood
Superb 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
Its bright tubular flowers are a favored nectar source for hummingbirds and bees.
Common questions
- How much sun does Superb penstemon need?
- Superb penstemon grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Superb penstemon bloom?
- Superb penstemon blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Superb penstemon native?
- Superb penstemon (Penstemon superbus) is native to AZ, NM, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Superb penstemon attract?
- Superb penstemon draws hummingbirds and bees.
- Is Superb penstemon HOA-friendly?
- Superb 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.
Does Superb penstemon fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.