Penstemon
No, not Pokemon! Penstemon! Most people know this popular native flower by the name of Beardtongue or the bearded dragon flower. You will find penstemon in many different colors and heights. These hardy flowers can also live a long time without water. They are sort of like the “camel” of California. These plants also love to sunbathe.
Native Americans prepared extracts from the stems and roots of the penstemon plant to treat fevers and toothaches. Penstemon refers to the presence of five stamens, four of which are pollen producers. The flowers are pollinated by bees, wasps, moths, butterflies, flies, and hummingbirds. If you ever see a penstemon, you can tell they are perfect landing pads for these flying insects.
"Index of 4000 Botanical Images (2004)." Webpage of Kurt Stüber. Web. 21 Aug. 2011.
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