The large genus Penstemon, also called beardtongue, contains more than 270 species of native perennial plants found in North America. They are popular in gardens because they draw hummingbirds and bees with their tubular, two-lipped flowers that come in red, purple, blue, and white hues. These sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants usually do well in poorly drained soils. Native Penstemon species in Southeast Missouri typically reach heights of one to five feet, with Foxglove Beardtongue (P. digitalis) being the most prevalent, often reaching three to five feet. These resilient, drought-tolerant perennials usually have foliage that is 1-2 feet broad when they bloom in late spring or early summer.