Palmer's Penstemon is one of the few strongly fragrant penstemons, its large pale pink flowers releasing a sweet honeysuckle-like scent especially in the evening. It is a tall, showy species of the Mojave and Great Basin deserts, growing on rocky slopes and roadsides. Unlike most penstemons, it attracts both native bees drawn by its fragrance and hummingbirds attracted to its pink color. The plant is often used in native landscaping throughout the arid Southwest.
Habitat
Rocky slopes, roadsides, desert washes, and disturbed areas of the Mojave Desert and Great Basin.
Diet
Nectar consumed by bumblebees, other native bees, and hummingbirds; notable for its unusual fragrance attracting diverse pollinators.
How common
Uncommon
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