Penstemon grandiflorus, commonly known as Large-Flowered Beardtongue, is a striking native perennial typically found in dry prairies, open hillsides, and sandy or rocky soils in western and central parts of Illinois. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, particularly in dry, open habitats.
This showy plant typically grows 1 to 3.5 feet tall and is known for its thick, bluish-green, waxy leaves that clasp the stem—often described as “shell-like.” In late spring to early summer, it produces large, tubular to bell-shaped flowers in shades of pale lavender, pink, or purple, with delicate markings in the throat. The flowers are highly attractive to bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Penstemon grandiflorus is a dramatic and ecologically beneficial addition to dry prairie gardens, pollinator plantings, and rock gardens. Its bold form, silvery foliage, and early-season blooms make it a standout species that pairs beautifully with Butterfly Weed, Prairie Smoke, and Little Bluestem in drought-tolerant native landscapes.
Penstemon grandiflorus, commonly known as Large-Flowered Beardtongue, is a striking native perennial typically found in dry prairies, open hillsides, and sandy or rocky soils in western and central parts of Illinois. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, particularly in dry, open habitats.
This showy plant typically grows 1 to 3.5 feet tall and is known for its thick, bluish-green, waxy leaves that clasp the stem—often described as “shell-like.” In late spring to early summer, it produces large, tubular to bell-shaped flowers in shades of pale lavender, pink, or purple, with delicate markings in the throat. The flowers are highly attractive to bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Penstemon grandiflorus is a dramatic and ecologically beneficial addition to dry prairie gardens, pollinator plantings, and rock gardens. Its bold form, silvery foliage, and early-season blooms make it a standout species that pairs beautifully with Butterfly Weed, Prairie Smoke, and Little Bluestem in drought-tolerant native landscapes.
Bloom: late spring to early summer
Habitats: dolomite prairies; dry sand prairies; gravelly hill prairies
Lifespan: short-lived perennial
Moisture: dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 3.5 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: poor soil containing rocky material or sand
