Rocky mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus, A. L. P. P. de Candolle, Prodr. 10:324. 1846)

Family: Plantaginaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: A. L. P. P. de Candolle, Prodr. 10:324. 1846

Year: 1846

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Penstemon

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. U.S.A.

Description

Rocky mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus) is a striking perennial that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. This remarkable plant, first officially described by the renowned botanist Benth. and cataloged by A. L. P. P. de Candolle in his seminal work, Prodr. 10:324 (1846), is native to the western regions of the United States.

Characterized by its tall, rigid stems and vibrant, tubular flowers, Rocky mountain penstemon adds a burst of color to the mountainous landscapes it inhabits. The deep blue to purple blossoms typically appear in the late spring to early summer months, attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds. The flowers of Penstemon strictus are arranged in dense clusters along the stems, creating a visually captivating display.

The foliage of the Rocky mountain penstemon is equally noteworthy. Its lance-shaped leaves grow opposite each other on the stem, providing a lush green backdrop to the vivid flowers. The plant’s overall structure is upright and robust, making it a favored choice for gardeners looking to add vertical interest to their perennial borders.

Rocky mountain penstemon thrives in well-drained soils and is drought-tolerant once established, making it an ideal candidate for xeriscaping. Its natural habitat includes rocky slopes and open woodlands, where it often forms part of the vibrant tapestry of the native flora. Despite its resilience, Penstemon strictus prefers full sunlight to partial shade to achieve optimal growth and flowering.

In addition to its horticultural appeal, the Rocky mountain penstemon holds ecological value. Its flowers provide an essential nectar source for insects and birds, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the regions it populates. This plant’s adaptability to harsh conditions and its low maintenance requirements make it a valuable addition to conservation efforts aimed at preserving native plant species.

In summary, the Rocky mountain penstemon is a distinguished member of the Plantaginaceae family, celebrated for its stunning floral displays and environmental contributions. Whether in a natural setting or cultivated garden, Penstemon strictus stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and resilience of native North American flora.

Common Names

Eng: rocky mountain penstemon
Swe: styv skäggört
En: Rocky Mountain penstemon
Fi: Pystypipo
Nv: Hagháʼníyoʼ (chʼil)
Sv: Styv skäggört
: Rocky mountain penstemon

Synonyms

• Penstemon micranthus (Torr.)
• Penstemon strictus subsp. angustus (Pennell)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• Colorado (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Utah (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• California (introduced)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jul 22, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 30, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2022 by Emeline (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 17, 2020 by julien blundell (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2022 by Emeline (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 8, 2021 by Tani Kickham (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 21, 2020 by Julia Trimarco (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 28, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 1, 2022 by Brett Lytle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2020 by Mykala Spangler (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Lyle Winterton (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 21, 2020 by Julia Trimarco (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 22, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3171460)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:808306-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Penstemon strictus Benth.)

Specifications

Growth form>: Stoloniferous

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 8.0

Ph minimum: 6.0