PEnstemon
Sierra beardtongue, whorled penstemon
heterodoxus
Perennial Herb
There are over 250 different species of Penstemon growing across the US, making it the 3rd largest plant family in western US. They are all similar very similar in style, however the shape and size varies between species.
heterodoxus
Perennial Herb
There are over 250 different species of Penstemon growing across the US, making it the 3rd largest plant family in western US. They are all similar very similar in style, however the shape and size varies between species.
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DESCRIPTION:
Flower The flowers of Sierra Penstemon are long and tube shaped, similar to Bluebells. The tube is formed from 5 petals fusing together at the base, then reaching out to create the mouth. They range from light purple to dark blue, and are covered in hair inside and out. The blooms grow in 1 to 6 clusters around the stem. Each bloom is about a centimeter long, and stays vibrant for multiple weeks in early summer. |
Stem
This hairless bright green stem grows to be around 2 feet tall. It sports equally bright green leaves around the base and on itself.
This hairless bright green stem grows to be around 2 feet tall. It sports equally bright green leaves around the base and on itself.
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Leaves
The leaves are long and lance shaped. They're a striking bright green to match the stem, and hairless as well. The leaves grow in clusters along the base of the stalk, then they work their way up the stem, growing on opposite sides. Toward the base of the stem they may grow in groups of 4, but as they move their way up its limited to two leaves at a time. The leaves are often thick, and find themselves wrinkled on the edges most of the time. |
WHERE TO FIND IT:
This species is very widespread and not secluded to just Montana. It can be found in deserts, grasslands, forests, and mountain meadows. I tend to find it in sunny spots within the nearby forests.
This species is very widespread and not secluded to just Montana. It can be found in deserts, grasslands, forests, and mountain meadows. I tend to find it in sunny spots within the nearby forests.
WHEN TO FIND IT:
The blooms arrive in June through August in my area.
The blooms arrive in June through August in my area.