Yellow penstemon is easy to grow and well-suited to a range of garden conditions. It prefers full sun but will tolerate light shade, and thrives in moist, well-drained soils—including those with higher organic content. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots; once established, it is drought tolerant but benefits from occasional supplemental watering during dry spells. Unlike many penstemons, it can handle seasonal moisture and is ideal for meadows, borders, and rain-adjacent gardens.

Plants grow quickly from seed (cold stratification recommended) and can also be propagated by cuttings. They transplant well and adapt to both in-ground and container settings. Minimal fertilization is needed. Deadheading spent flower stalks keeps the basal foliage healthy and may encourage a second bloom. Yellow penstemon is non-invasive and forms tidy clumps with occasional volunteers in moist soils.

Scientific Name: Penstemon confertus
Plant Family: Plantaginaceae
Flower Colour: Creamy-white
Flowering Months: May-June
Height (feet): 30-50 cm
Lifespan: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Sun to light shade
Soil Moisture: Medium
Drought Tolerance: Drought tolerant when established
Pollinator Value: Very high
Benefits To Pollinators: Nectar and pollen
Pollinators: Bumble bees, mining bees, mason bees, butterflies
Hummingbirds: Yes

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