Desert Penstemon Seeds

Desert Penstemon, a California native wildflower, is a perennial shrub with showy blooms from mid to late spring. Clusters of tubular flowers attract bees, hummingbirds, and birds. Sow seeds in fall/winter during seasonal rainfall. Press seeds into the soil barely covering them. Seeds need light to germinate and a cold, wet period to sprout. One month of cold stratification is recommended. Penstemons grow happily in native sandy loam soil with little water once established. They can be grown for erosion control.

Planting by Zones

Zones 9–10

• Desert Penstemon is native to Southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico. This perennial will bloom for many weeks in Zones 9 and 10. Seeds can be started in the fall or spring in Zones 9 and 10 but require cold stratification to germinate. To do so, plant seeds in a tray, then place them in a plastic bag. Place the sealed bag in the fridge for about 30 days. Seeds will germinate after removal from the fridge.

Zones 3–8

• Start 4 weeks before the last frost indoors. Transplant out after the danger of frost is gone.

Planting Penstemon Seeds

• Penstemon seeds are smaller and do not require deep planting. Make sure when planting the seeds that you cover them with finely sifted soil. Covering seeds with heavy soil with rocks, mulch or large seed particles will inhibit sprouting.

Growing Penstemon

• Penstemon is a drought-tolerant plant that can thrive on neglect. This medium-sized shrub can grow in varying soil conditions and in full sun to partial shade. Great choice for xeriscaping and native gardens!  
• We do not recommend planting penstemon in containers. Best planted in the garden in areas away from direct irrigation. 

Southern California Pro-tips

• In much of Zones 9 and 10, penstemon is a native flower that will grow happily in drier parts of the garden.

Companion Flowers/ Crops

• Best grown with other California native flowers like poppies, yarrow, and lupine. Search all our flower varieties here.

Additional Learning Resources

• New to starting crops from seeds? Please watch our Seed Starting Presentation to learn the basics!
• Learn about growing all our crops on our YouTube page!