From Edgeland Nursery in Eagle Creek, Oregon, these plants will come wrapped in burlap and should be potted or planted immediately. Pre-order for pickup on the next second Saturday of the month.

Broadleaf penstemon (Penstemon ovatus) is a native perennial in the plantain family, generally growing 1–3 feet tall. It grows best in part shade to full sun and moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, though established plants tolerate some summer drying. Broad, glossy green leaves form attractive basal rosettes, while upright flowering stems bear clusters of vivid blue to blue-purple tubular flowers in late spring and early summer. Particularly well suited to woodland edges, open forests, and gardens with morning sun and afternoon shade.

Physical Characteristics

• Leaves: Broad, oval to heart-shaped, glossy green leaves with toothed margins, forming basal rosettes. Upper stem leaves are smaller and arranged in opposite pairs.

• Flowers: Showy, tubular, two-lipped flowers in shades of blue, violet-blue, and purple, often with a pale throat; generally blooms May through July.

• Stems: Upright, leafy flowering stems, typically 12–36 inches tall, arising from a perennial crown.

• Fruit: Small, dry, oval capsules containing numerous tiny seeds that mature in late summer.

Habitat and Distribution

• Native Range: Southwestern British Columbia south through western Washington and Oregon into northwestern California.

• Environment: Moist open forests, woodland edges, forest clearings, streambanks, and shaded slopes, particularly in areas with rich, well-drained soils. Prefers more moisture and shade than many other native penstemons.

• Ecology: Flowers provide nectar and pollen for native bees, especially bumblebees, as well as other pollinators. The tubular blooms are also visited by hummingbirds. An excellent addition to woodland gardens, pollinator plantings, and partially shaded native perennial borders.