A little-known species which deserves to be more widely grown. An abundance of lilac-purple and white flowers appear in summer and persist for several weeks. Flowers are a magnet for bees.
Prefers a fertile but well-drained soil in partial shade but will tolerate some sun if soil is moisture retentive.
Height: 18 – 30 inches / 45 – 75cm
Spread: 18 – 24 inches / 45 – 60cm
Lynnes notes:
My all time favourite Penstemon. Penstemon are known as beard tongues due to the fine hairs at the openings of the flowers (see photo) and P. smallii has them in abundance which, for me, just adds to their charm. It readily sets seed and offspring are found in various shades of lilac from pink to blue toned.
