Quick answer: Scarlet bugler (Penstemon barbatus) is native to 2 states. What's commonly sold under this name is often a bred variety or the wrong species — see the lookalike alert below. It's typically seeds, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Wendy McCrady https://www.inaturalist.org/people/wendybirds, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Rocky soils |
| Bloom | Jun-Oct |
| Height | Up to 3 ft |
| Wildlife value | Attracts hummingbirds, special value to native bees |
Lookalike alert
Seeds (1000 ct, Rondo Mix cultivar), In Stock, $14.50.
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Scarlet bugler
Where is Scarlet bugler native?
Scarlet bugler (Penstemon barbatus) is native to Colorado and New Mexico. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Scarlet bugler bloom?
Scarlet bugler blooms Jun-Oct. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Scarlet bugler need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Dry. Soil: Rocky soils. Mature height: Up to 3 ft.
Is Scarlet bugler good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts hummingbirds, special value to native bees.
Is Scarlet bugler deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Scarlet bugler is deer-resistant, drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Scarlet bugler seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Be aware that some sellers offer bred varieties under this name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Scarlet bugler.
- Rocky Mountain penstemon Penstemon strictus
- Bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Indiangrass Sorghastrum nutans
- Cutleaf coneflower Rudbeckia laciniata
- Autumn sage Salvia greggii
- Utah serviceberry Amelanchier utahensis
Also listed under
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