Penstemon 'Prairie Jewel' is a striking perennial recognized for its tubular blooms that shift in hue from creamy yellow to blush pink as they mature adding a dynamic element to garden palettes. Its narrow lance shaped foliage remains tidy throughout the season, and the plant thrives in sunny well drained conditions. ‘Prairie Jewel’ is drought tolerant once established and adds height and movement to prairie style and pollinator friendly gardens.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Early summer to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, moderately fertile soil
Watering Needs: Low; allow soil to dry between watering once established
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed due to bitter foliage compounds
Native Status
Penstemon 'Prairie Jewel' is a cultivated variety bred from species native to North American prairies and drylands. Though a cultivar, it maintains the rugged adaptability and wildlife value of its native ancestors.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts native long tongued bees like Anthophora and Bombus species with its deep tubular blooms.
Butterflies
- Frequently visited by swallowtails and other larger butterflies seeking nectar in midsummer.
Hummingbirds
- The tubular flower shape and pastel color range are ideal for attracting Ruby Throated Hummingbirds.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports hoverflies and minute pirate bugs that control aphids and thrips in dry meadow gardens.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to ensure airflow and clump formation while retaining vertical appeal.
Landscape Placement:
- Use in rock gardens, prairie reconstructions, or dry borders where the pastel blooms can catch light and contrast with grasses and bolder perennials.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Airy blue green grass provides a movement filled contrast to the penstemon’s spikes.
- Erigeron speciosus 'Darkest of All' - Finely petaled purple asters offer summer texture and pollinator appeal.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Rich violet flower spikes contrast beautifully with the soft pastel tones of 'Prairie Jewel'.
- Coreopsis lanceolata - Bright golden yellow blooms create seasonal contrast with the penstemon's soft flowers.
- Echinacea pallida - Pale coneflower form and nodding shape pairs well with Penstemon’s upright structure in prairie beds.