Scrophulariaceae
Penstemon cardwellii

Cardwell's Penstemon

Large cushions with upright hairless stems that root along the ground [[ok? Yes]]. Evergreen leaves oval, 3/4–1 1/2 in. long, 1/2 as wide, tips rounded, entire or toothed. Flower cluster at stem top. Flowers 1 in. or more in length, bright purple to blue-purple. Grows on rock slopes, including Mount St. Helens, in openings in forests, at mid elevations.

  • Rarity: Uncommon
  • Flowering Time: Early Summer
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Height: 12 inches
  • Habitat: West-Side Forest
  • Found In: Cascade Mts., , West Gorge
  • Native: Yes