About
A prostrate evergreen subshrub to 10cm high, with bluntly toothed, rounded leaves and funnel-shaped, lavender-blue flowers 3-4cm long, in erect racemes, from late spring.
About the genus
Penstemon may be deciduous or evergreen perennials or subshrubs, with simple, narrow leaves and racemes or panicles of bell-shaped or funnel-shaped flowers in summer and early autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Shrubs
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Gravel garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toWestern N America
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. In cold areas, protect plant overwinter with a dry winter mulch. See penstemon cultivation for further advice
PruningDeadhead after flowering to maintain vigour
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer
Pest resistanceMay be damaged by slugs and snails, may be infested with chrysanthemum eelworm
Disease resistancePowdery mildew may be a problem