rostriflorus Beardtongue (Penstemon)

Penstemon rostriflorus, also called Bridges penstemon, is a long-blooming western perennial with upright stems of scarlet to orange-red, beak-shaped flowers above gray-green foliage. It forms a woody-based clump and draws hummingbirds during its extended summer display. [Kew accepts the name Penstemon rostriflorus Kellogg](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:187741-2). [Utah State University describes its form, flowering, and site needs](https://cwelwnp.usu.edu/westernnativeplants/plantlist_view.php?id=46&name=penstemonrostriflorus). ## Garden Use Use this beardtongue in a sunny, dry border, gravel garden, or native planting with grasses and other drought-adapted perennials. Flowering is generally strongest from June into August, though local plants may continue later; Colorado State University Extension lists a June–September season and a typical 2–3-foot height. ## Growing Conditions Provide full sun and well-drained, gravelly soil. The species is adapted to dry western habitats and has low tolerance for persistently wet roots. Its height varies by site: Utah State reports plants averaging about 16 inches in the wild, with some exceeding 36 inches, so allow room for natural variation. ## Maintenance Keep fertility modest and avoid overwatering. Remove spent flower stems if you want to encourage additional bloom, and remove old fruiting stalks when their persistent seed pods no longer suit the planting.