Penstemon 'Rondo Mix' is a vibrant selection of beardtongue known for its upright spires of tubular blooms in a wide range of colors from lavender and rose to scarlet and coral. This drought tolerant perennial is a magnet for pollinators and provides long lasting color in well drained sunny borders. Its slender foliage and bushy habit make it a low maintenance addition to xeriscapes and cutting gardens.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to mid summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained soil, tolerates poor to rocky soils
Watering Needs: Low; thrives in dry conditions once established
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer due to bitter foliage
Native Status
Penstemon 'Rondo Mix' is a cultivated variety developed from North American native Penstemon species. While the mix itself is not naturally occurring, it maintains many of the ecological benefits of its native parents.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts long tongued native bees, especially bumblebees and mason bees, which pollinate the tubular flowers.
Hummingbirds
- Frequented by Ruby Throated Hummingbirds who are drawn to the vivid red and pink blooms.
Butterflies
- Draws swallowtails and sulphurs which forage on the open faced flowers in sunny settings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow for airflow and clumping habit without overcrowding neighboring plants.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and xeric landscapes. Works well in combination with other drought tolerant species and vertical bloomers.
Companion Plants
- Agastache foeniculum (Anise Hyssop) - Fragrant, spiky lavender flowers and minty foliage offer both sensory appeal and pollinator support.
- Gaillardia aristata (Blanket Flower) - Red orange blooms mirror the warm palette and provide late season interest.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Moonbeam' - Soft yellow daisy like blooms brighten dry soils and thread easily between Penstemon clumps.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Sturdy rose pink blooms and seed heads add longevity and structure to sunny borders.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Deep violet flower spikes highlight the multicolor Penstemon blend with long bloom time.