Penstemon serrulatus (Cascade Penstemon)

Plant Description: this delicate evergreen perennial has multiple unbranched stems that rise from a slightly woody base. The stems grow upright and occasionally present fine hairs. Broad, sharply toothed leaves grow oppositely along the stems and are elliptic to lance-shaped. The lower leaves are attached to stems with petioles (short leafstalks), whereas the upper ones are clasping, lacking petioles. Single or sometimes as many as 5 whorled clusters of flowers top the long stalks and each flower is supported by a hairy calyx. The lavender to deep blue corolla is composed of a short, funnel-shaped tube, narrow at the base, and extended into two lobed lips at the mouth. The species name “serrulatus” refer to the sharply serrated leaf margins. Penstemons are also known as beard-tongues because of their 2-lipped flowers and hairy calyx. Height: up to 28" Watering needs: frequent  Sun needs: full sun to part shade Soil needs: well-drained Bloom Time: June to early August Portland P