Penstemon spectabilis is a species of penstemon known by the common name; showy penstemon. It is native to southern California and Baja California, where it grows in the chaparral, scrub, and woodlands of the coastal mountain ranges.

Penstemon spectabilis is a perennial herb growing erect to a maximum height often exceeding one meter. The thin leaves are lance-shaped to oval, serrated on the edges, and up to 10 centimeters in length. The oppositely arranged pairs may fuse about the stem at the bases. The inflorescence bears wide-mouthed tubular purple-blue flowers which may be over 3 centimeters long. The throat is lighter in color, lavender to nearly white, and hairless inside.

This plant is often a pioneer species in habitat recently disturbed. It is pollinated by wasps such as Pseudomasaris vespoides, as well as by hummingbirds.

Type: Hardy perennial

Height: 1 m, 30"

Location: Sun or part sun

Hardiness zones: Perennial in zones 6-11

Seeds per packet: 20