Penstemon fruticiformis, commonly known as Death Valley beardtongue, is a perennial herb native to the arid and semi-arid regions, specifically the rocky scrub, woodlands, and mountain slopes of eastern California and western Nevada. It is well-adapted to desert conditions and often found in the Mojave and Great Basin deserts. This species typically grows up to 24 inches tall and features hairless, waxy stems that contribute to its drought resistance. The lance-shaped leaves are arranged in a basal rosette, and the plant produces showy white or pale pinkish-lavender flowers, each about 1 inch long, with distinctive dark lines on the lower lobes serving as nectar guides for pollinators such as native bumblebees. The flowering season extends from late spring to early summer.

Death Valley beardtongue is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It requires minimal maintenance once established and is a good candidate for naturalistic plantings in arid regions. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to light shade and requires little to no supplemental water once established, embodying the principles of water-wise gardening. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0