Widespread native perennial with woody rhizomes and bright blue or purple flowers, blooming June to August. Moderately drought tolerant, occurring on dry to moist meadows, shrublands, open woodlands and streambanks; 2,000 to 13,000 ft. elevation. Foliage is more palatable to browsing herbivores than most other penstemon species. Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies and pollinating insects.