Scientific Family
Scrophulariaceae
Synonyms
Penstemon bridgesii
Other common names
beaked penstemon
mountain scarlet penstemon
Plant type
Forbs and Subshrubs
Origin
Native
Lifecycle
Perennial
Similar species
Penstemon barbartus
Height
1-1/2 to 3 feet
Riparian
No
The low, much-branched, sub-woody base of bridge penstemon sends up 2 to 3 foot stems. It is an unusual penstemon on several
counts: it is woody, evergreen and shrub-like.
Sepals and flower stalks noticeably glandular and hairy.
Habitat
This penstemon thrives in areas with cooler summer temperatures and some summer water. Foothills, canyons, openings,
shrublands.
Plant Community
Pinyon Juniper Woodlands
Montane Conifer Forest
Low elevation
4500
High elevation
8500
Flower Characteristics
Flowers and stems have glandular hairs so sticky that small insects are trapped.
Flower color
Red
Flower shape
Irregular
Tubular
Yes
First bloom month
June
Last bloom month
September
Flower clusters
Elongated
Leaf and Stem Characteristics
Stems are hairy and grow both upright and sprawling; dried, beige flower stems persist for several years, and darker, thicker, woody stems support the entire plant.
Leaf type
Simple
Leaf color
Green
Leaf shape
Narrow
Leaf margin
Smooth
Leaves clasp
Yes
Leaf hairs
Stems
Spines
No
Fruit and Seed Characteristics
Fruit type
Capsule
Fruit color
Brown
Seed pods remain on the plant for a year and are quite noticeable.