Yellow Penstemon

Penstemon confertus

Basic Information

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Genus: penstemon

Plant ID (slug): penstemon-confertus

Numeric ID: 26287

USDA Hardiness: 3-7

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Penstemon confertus is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Tea A tea-like beverage is made by boiling the dried leaves and stems for a short time[161, 177, 183, 257]. If made too strong, it can have a purgative effect on the body[257].

Medicinal Uses

Purgative Salve Stomachic A strong decoction of the root is purgative[257]. A decoction of the outer bark has been used in the treatment of stomach troubles[257]. The roasted and powdered stems and leaves have been used as a dressing on sores, cuts and wounds[257].