LEO PENSTEMON

Penstemon leonardii

Figwort Family (Scrophulariaceae)

Another little-known blue penstemon from Utah, Leo penstemon has a low, fountain-like habit, bright green strap-shaped leaves, and an abundance of sky blue to deep blue blossoms cascading down its branch tips in late May. It works well as an informal ground cover, combining well with mound-forming foothill plants like sulfurflower buckwheat. It also makes an excellent host for Indian paintbrush, as it is strong enough to prosper even with a hanger-on. The two species flower together for a spectacular red and blue effect. Leo penstemon appreciates occasional watering in the heat of the summer to keep its foliage looking pretty, though it is quite drought-hardy. It is a plant of rocky, exposed slopes in the foothills, and prefers well-drained soils and full sun.