Sonoma Mountain Pride

Penstemon newberryi var. sonomensis

perennial herbView on Calscape

Care

Sun

part shade

Water

very low

Soil

Fast; Rocky soils or rock ledges.

Size

0–1ft tall, 8–38ft wide

Bloom

Mar-May

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Endemic to Sonoma County in the North Coast Ranges, 1000-2500 ft elevation, on rocky slopes and volcanic soils in chaparral and mixed scrub.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Sonoma Mountain Pride in a spot with partial shade and fast-draining soil - rocky or sandy soil is ideal, mimicking its native mountain habitat. Space plants about 12 inches apart to account for their mature bushy, mat-forming growth (under 1 foot tall). Plant in spring or fall to give the plant time to establish before extreme temperatures. Avoid heavy clay or poorly draining soil, which will lead to root rot.

After Planting

Water weekly during your first summer, then transition to once-monthly watering once established (typically by year 2). The #1 mistake is overwatering - this plant is extremely drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions, so err on the side of too dry rather than too wet. Expect magenta flowers in spring (March through May), and don't expect much special pruning beyond removing dead growth. This plant tolerates cold down to 0–10°F, so it's well-suited to Bay Area winters.

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