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Wild Foxglove

Penstemon cobaea

Last reviewed: June 2026

Wild Foxglove (Penstemon cobaea) is a perennial forb native to AR, IA, KS, MO and 3 more states. It blooms in March, April, and May. The flowers draw butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.

Wild Foxglove (Penstemon cobaea)
Photo: (c) Eric Hunt, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

18"–30" H × 12"–18" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

AR, IA, KS, MO and 3 more states

Pollinators

butterflies, moths, hummingbirds

Wild Foxglove produces showy tubular flowers in white, pink, or purple from March through May. This drought-tolerant perennial forms neat clumps with attractive foliage that dies back in winter. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established.

Growing Wild Foxglove

Grow Wild Foxglove in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 18 to 30 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Wild Foxglove 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 large tubular flowers are magnets for hummingbirds and butterflies during spring blooming season. Night-flying moths also visit the flowers for nectar.

Common questions

How much sun does Wild Foxglove need?
Wild Foxglove grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Wild Foxglove bloom?
Wild Foxglove blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Wild Foxglove native?
Wild Foxglove (Penstemon cobaea) is native to AR, IA, KS, MO and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Wild Foxglove attract?
Wild Foxglove draws butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds.
Is Wild Foxglove HOA-friendly?
Wild Foxglove 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 Wild Foxglove fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.