Penstemon digitalis is a durable upright perennial valued for its spires of white to pale pink tubular flowers and burgundy tinged stems. Blooming in late spring to early summer, it provides a vertical accent in mixed borders and supports pollinators with abundant nectar. Its tolerance of a wide range of soils and conditions makes it an adaptable addition to both naturalistic and formal garden designs. Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 12 - 24 in Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade Soil Preference: Well drained soil, tolerates clay and poor soils once established Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant due to bitter foliage Native Status Penstemon digitalis is native to eastern and central North America, thriving in meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Bees Highly attractive to long tongued native bees and bumblebees which access its tubular blooms for nectar. Butterflies Occasionally visited by swallowtails and fritillaries seeking nectar from its clusters of flowers. Hummingbirds Draws Ruby Throated Hummingbirds that hover at the tubular flowers during late spring feeding. Beneficial Insects Provides nectar to predatory hoverflies and parasitic wasps that help control garden pests. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations: Plant 18 - 24 in apart for a full upright clump and optimal air circulation. Landscape Placement: Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and prairie style plantings where its vertical spires add seasonal height. Companion Plants Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Blue green blades and copper fall tones create a textural backdrop. Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Soft lavender blooms and aromatic foliage attract pollinators in midsummer. Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Airy yellow flowers carpet the base with a continuous soft display. Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Golden blooms provide a bright contrast in mid to late summer after penstemon flowers fade. Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Large purple coneflowers complement the vertical white spires with bold color.
