Cobea Penstemon
There are approximately 280 different species of native penstemons to the United States and many of them grow native in Kansas. This native grows in the eastern 2/3 of the state and can currently be seen blooming in roadside ditches or along the limestone bluffs of our native prairies. Also known as “beardtongue” this beautiful plant has white to pale purple flowers that bloom on tall stalks from May through June. Interestingly enough the flowers will be a different color based on the location they are growing in. They are easy to spot driving down the highway and in native pastures, especially this time of year. Most range in height from 6 to 40” tall and all attract a wide variety of native bees and pollinators. There are several cultivated varieties that are available with different colors of blooms, heights and leaf colors. Penstemons grow best in full sun with well drained soils as they do not tolerate consistently wet areas in the garden. They can be used in rock gardens or in the regular landscape for a spring blooming flower. Penstemons are tolerant of drought, deer and are very low maintenance.
