Water
Water deeply but infrequently once established. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soils.
Reduce watering in winter to prevent frost damage and over-saturation.
Also known as Rocky Mountain Beardtongue
Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus) is a striking perennial with spires of vibrant blue-purple flowers, native to western North America's arid regions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Drought-tolerant once established
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures; suitable for USDA Zones 3-8.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low feeder
25% intensity
Benefits from minimal fertilization; thrives in lean soil.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply but infrequently once established. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soils.
Reduce watering in winter to prevent frost damage and over-saturation.
After flowering, deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance. In late fall or early spring, cut back the dead foliage to about 10-15 cm above the ground to promote new growth and prevent fungal diseases.
Easily propagated from seed sown in autumn or early spring. Seeds may benefit from a period of cold stratification.
Stem cuttings can also be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in well-draining soil or a seed-starting mix.
This species generally prefers to be slightly root-bound and does not require frequent repotting. If container-grown and the plant becomes overcrowded, repot in early spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus)
Where Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Penstemon |
| Species | Penstemon strictus |
Similar in genus Penstemon
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data