Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Penstemon mexicali hybrids 'P008s'
Red Rocks Beardtongue
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Height
- 16 to 18 inches
- Width
- 12 to 16 inches
- Flower color
- Bright red-pink tubular flowers with a hint of white in the throat
- Foliage color
- Dark green, narrow leaves with a fine texture
- Bloom time
- Late spring through summer, with potential rebloom in fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Maintenance
- Low; deadhead to encourage rebloom and cut back in early spring
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4a (-25º to -30ºF) to 8b
- Wildlife
- Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies; deer resistant due to its tough foliage
About this plant
Penstemon mexicali hybrids 'P008s' provides a vibrant display of tubular flowers from early summer into fall. The blooms, often in shades of pink, purple, or red, rise above narrow, semi-evergreen foliage, creating a lively contrast. These long-lasting flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators, making them a favorite in wildlife-friendly gardens.
Derived from a cross between Penstemon species native to the western United States and Mexico, 'P008s' hybrids are bred for improved hardiness and extended blooming. Their compact, adaptable nature and reliable performance make them well-suited for sunny borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, bringing vibrant color and ecological value to a variety of settings.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. In full sun it holds its shape best, and grouping several together keeps the color strong enough to be seen from across the garden.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
