Palmer's Penstemon (Penstemon palmeri) is a striking native penstemon of the deserts and arid regions of the southwestern and western United States. Distinguished by its tall, upright spikes of pale pink to lavender flowers, this species is one of the few penstemons with a sweet fragrance. It thrives in rocky, well-drained soils, making it a favorite for xeriscaping, pollinator gardens, and ecological restoration in dry landscapes. Ecologically, Palmer's Penstemon is a vital resource in its native habitat.
 
Its tubular blooms are particularly attractive to hummingbirds, whose long beaks and tongues are perfectly adapted to extract nectar. Native bees, including bumblebees and mason bees, also visit the flowers in abundance, contributing to the plant’s pollination. Additionally, the plant provides a critical nectar source for butterflies and moths, supporting a broad range of pollinators in arid ecosystems. Blooming from late spring to early summer, Palmer's Penstemon offers food at a time when other desert plants may not be flowering. Resistant to deer and other herbivores due to its slightly bitter foliage, Palmer's Penstemon is also a low-maintenance option for gardeners.
 
This species is adapted to thrive in challenging environments. It prefers full sun and grows best in well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils. Its deep root system not only helps it survive drought but also stabilizes soil, making it a valuable species for erosion control on dry slopes and disturbed areas.  Growing Palmer's Penstemon from seed is straightforward but requires some preparation. The seeds benefit from cold stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy. They can be sown directly outdoors in fall or stratified and sown in spring. Germination occurs within 14-30 days under favorable conditions. Once established, this hardy penstemon requires little water and thrives in harsh, sunny environments.