Wild Foxglove
Penstemon cobaea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Penstemon cobaea is a native wildflower found across the Great Plains and South Central states, blooming with large purple flowers from March through May. This drought-tolerant perennial attracts butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds to prairie and rocky habitats.
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
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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
- When does Wild Foxglove bloom?
- Penstemon cobaea typically blooms from March through May, producing large tubular purple flowers that are among the showiest of all penstemons.
- What pollinators visit Penstemon cobaea?
- Wild Foxglove attracts butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds with its large, nectar-rich flowers. The tubular shape is particularly well-suited for long-tongued pollinators.
- Where is Penstemon cobaea native?
- This species is native to Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas, primarily in prairie and limestone outcroppings throughout the Great Plains region.
- What growing conditions does Wild Foxglove prefer?
- Penstemon cobaea thrives in full sun to partial sun with low to moderate water requirements. It is well-adapted to rocky soils and drought conditions typical of its native prairie habitat.
- 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.
Ready to grow Wild Foxglove? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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