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Talus Slope Penstemon

Penstemon digitalis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Talus Slope Penstemon (Penstemon digitalis)
Photo: (c) Michael Ellis, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Michael Ellis

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

24"–48" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

ME

Pollinators

bees, hummingbirds

Penstemon digitalis is a tall, upright perennial that produces spikes of white tubular flowers from May through July. This native wildflower forms clumps of lance-shaped green leaves and can reach up to 4 feet in height when in bloom. It thrives in full sun with moderate water needs and goes dormant in winter.

In an HOA neighborhood

Talus Slope Penstemon takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.

  • Height of 4+ feet may exceed typical front yard plant standards
  • Can look weedy or unkempt when not in bloom
  • Wild appearance may not match manicured landscape expectations

Wildlife value

The tubular white flowers are excellent for attracting bees and hummingbirds during the long blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar sources for pollinators throughout late spring and summer.

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 Talus Slope Penstemon fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.