Description

Foothill penstemon is found in the coastal mountains from Oregon to Mexico, the Transverse ranges and the Sierra Nevada. It grows as an open, rounded shrub with narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The flowers are tubular in a color ranging from white to blue to lavender. ‘Margarita BOP’ was selected from a chance garden seedling by Las Pilitas Nursery in the 90’s. It is thought to be a hybrid involving Penstemon laetus and Penstemon heterophyllus. It has a reputation for tolerating garden conditions more than the species, but well-draining soil, a sunny location, and sparse watering are still recommended. The spring bloom is quite spectacular. Removing the spent flower stocks can stimulate a second bloom.
The peculiar name? Well, the Margarita is from Santa Margarita, where Las Pilitas Nursery is located. ‘BOP’ stands for “bottom of porch” where the volunteer was discovered.