#41. Rock Penstemon

Penstemon rupicola

Family:

Figwort Family

Characteristics:

1. Rock Penstemon is a low growing shrub, at most one foot tall.

2. It has numerous, oval or elliptical leaves, each about one inch long. The leaves arise on the stems opposite one another.

3. The flowers are brightly colored with a reddish-lavendar. The 5 petals are joined together to make a tube about an inch and a half long. The only part of the petals that are free is at the very tips, which form short lobes at the mouth of the flower. The flower also appears to have two lips at this opening, an upper one, and a lower one.

Habitat:

Rock Penstemon is found in steep, rocky areas, often growing on the face of cliffs.

Importance:

1. Penstemons are beautiful wildflowers to be enjoyed when seen in the wild.

2. They are among the most popular wildflowers for use in naturalized gardens.