The Rock Penstemon (Penstemon baccharifolius) is a hardy, deer-resistant perennial with vibrant cherry-red tubular flowers that bloom in clusters on tall stalks, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in alkaline, well-drained soils and requires minimal water once established. With its dark-green leaves and occasional hairy texture, the Rock Penstemon grows to a compact height of 1 to 1.5 feet and spreads out into a bushy form. Ideal for sunny spots and low-water gardens, it’s a perfect choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. Hummingbirds flock to its nectar-rich blooms, and it also tolerates some light shade. The plant’s ability to adapt to dry, rocky, and gravelly soils makes it a tough, low-maintenance addition for any landscape. Whether you’re looking to attract pollinators or add color to your garden, this beautiful perennial is the perfect solution.

Key Features and Benefits

• Bright Cherry-Red Flowers: Clusters of vibrant, tubular blooms attract hummingbirds and add beautiful color to any landscape.
• Deer-Resistant: This plant is not a favorite of deer, making it ideal for gardens in areas with wildlife pressure.
• Low Water Requirements: Rock Penstemon thrives in low-water, alkaline soils with minimal irrigation once established.
• Attracts Pollinators: Its nectar-rich flowers are perfect for attracting hummingbirds, bees, and other beneficial insects.
• Compact Size: Growing up to 1 to 1.5 feet tall, it fits perfectly in rock gardens, xeriscape landscapes, and border plantings.

Ideal for:

• Low-Maintenance Landscapes: Perfect for gardeners looking for a tough plant that thrives on little water and minimal care.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attract hummingbirds and bees with this vibrant, nectar-rich plant.
• Rock Gardens and Xeriscaping: Well-suited to rocky, sandy, or gravelly soils, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant landscaping.
• Wildlife-Friendly Gardens: Provides a safe haven for pollinators and beneficial insects while resisting damage from deer.

FAQs

Q1: What are the ideal growing conditions for Rock Penstemon?
A1: The Rock Penstemon thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers alkaline soils with good drainage, such as rocky, gravelly, or sandy soils. It also requires low water once established.

Q2: How tall does Rock Penstemon grow?
A2: The Rock Penstemon typically grows between 1 to 1.5 feet tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide, making it a compact addition to gardens and landscapes.

Q3: Does Rock Penstemon attract hummingbirds?
A3: Yes, the bright cherry-red tubular flowers of Rock Penstemon are a favorite of hummingbirds, who are attracted to the plant’s nectar-rich blooms.

Q4: Is Rock Penstemon deer-resistant?
A4: Yes, Rock Penstemon is known for being deer-resistant, making it an excellent choice for gardens in areas with high wildlife activity.

Q5: Can Rock Penstemon be grown in containers?
A5: Yes, Rock Penstemon can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and is placed in a sunny or partially shaded area. It thrives in low-water conditions, making it ideal for container gardening.