We are lucky to have numerous penstemon species in this area. This one, with its large fleshy leaves and big, pink flowers is Palmer's Penstemon (Penstemon palmeri). It's also called scented penstemon, balloon flower or pink snap dragon.The stems can grow up to five feet tall, with numerous stems per plant and up to 20 flowers per stem.
The upper two petals provide shade for the flower structures below, including the large staminode with its pompom of projecting hairs. The lower three petals curve downwards, with a lighter pink surrounding the dark pink middle.
The upper two petals provide shade for the flower structures below, including the large staminode with its pompom of projecting hairs. The lower three petals curve downwards, with a lighter pink surrounding the dark pink middle.This penstemon grows in a variety of habitats and is an excellent choice for a garden.
For more information about Palmer's Penstemon, click here.
1 comment:
Wow, that's a great-looking penstemon. I haven't seen anything like it around Salt Lake. (Though to be fair, I usually don't get into the West Desert much this time of year- I mainly go East/Up!)
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