Quick answer: Foothill penstemon (Penstemon heterophyllus) is native to 1 state. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 24 Oct 2026.
Photo: Stickpen, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
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 | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Well-drained, rocky |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jul |
| Height | 1-2 ft |
| Wildlife value | Bees, hummingbirds |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 24 Oct 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Foothill penstemon
Where is Foothill penstemon native?
Foothill penstemon (Penstemon heterophyllus) is native to California. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Foothill penstemon bloom?
Foothill penstemon blooms Apr-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Foothill penstemon need?
Light: Sun. Water: Dry. Soil: Well-drained, rocky. Mature height: 1-2 ft.
Is Foothill penstemon good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Bees, hummingbirds.
Is Foothill penstemon deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Foothill penstemon is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy Foothill penstemon?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 24 Oct 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Penstemon heterophyllus by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Foothill penstemon.
- White sage Salvia apiana
- Common manzanita Arctostaphylos manzanita
- Black sage Salvia mellifera
- Hummingbird sage Salvia spathacea
- California coffeeberry Rhamnus californica
- Elegant clarkia Clarkia unguiculata
Also listed under
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