Penstemons, or “beard-tongues,” of various species are numerous on the
desert as well as throughout the higher, moister parts of the Southwest.
This one blooms in spring and early summer below 6,000 feet from
southwestern New Mexico to southern California. It, and the similar
Parry Penstemon, are among the more noticeable desert species because of
their showy flowers covering the clumps of erect stems two to four feet
tall. Both are fairly common on mesa slopes and mountain canyons with
individuals well scattered, hence not contributing to the mass flower
displays of the desert springtime.
_Penstemon pseudospectabilis_ Figwort Family
[Illustration: DESERT BEARDTONGUE]