Need ID on CA native

Judging by the foliage, I'd say my photo is Penstemon spectabilis (Showy Penstemon). Any other ideas? This was gifted to me by the birds this year.

http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/penstemon-spectabilis

Thank you , Thank you, Thank you, KaperC!!! That is my favorite Penstemon, and the Santa Margarita store isn't far away.

You mean the Escondido store, don't you, Carol? Santa Margarita is northeast of San Luis Obispo. I almost pulled it out when it sprouted because the leaves looked so much like a weed! Sure hope it reseeds.

Whoops! I was thinking of 'Rancho' Santa Margarita. Looks like their online store is out of them. It might be a bit late to get one established this year anyway. If yours sets seed, will you keep me in mind please?

They have them in Escondido, or you could try Tree of Life in San Juan Capistrano.

Yes, I was thinking about Tree Of Life. I'll check it out. I haven't been there in years.

I am going to save seeds, though, in case you don't find one!

I haven't seen this particular penstemon at TOL. The one I've got I got from Las Pilitas. Plan on getting a few more next time I go down Las Pilitas way. They're such an easy-care penstemon.

This message was edited May 8, 2010 11:13 AM

Well, I'm way overdue for a visit to TOL, and even more overdue for a visit to Escondido, so now I have another excuse to get off my duff and go.
Ha! If I ever read my paper before it was days old, I could have gone to TOL today for the class....or not.

Nice photos, KC. I think we have some growing here. I'll check, but doubt I'll be collecting the seeds. I did that with the lupine and I'll do that with the CA poppies, but bless those birds for your Penstemon spectabilis. Sometimes my favorites are the ones that volunteer. : - )
Couldn't have happened at a better time for you.
WIB!
SW

I have three different plants in the front landscape planted by thr birds. California Poppies, an invasive plant that looks like Black Eyed Susan and Oxiles (sp). I love all three and spend time and mkeep an eye on them and keep them where I want them.

Jules, the Black Eyed Susan would look great on your mountain. It travels by roots and seed but it is very easy to thin out and remove. When the B E S blooms, I will post a photo.

I have never grown a Penstemen. I actually do not think I have ever seen one. Is it an annual? I love the color.

No, Sharon, they are perennials and very popular with hummingbirds. There are lots of colors and different heights, etc.

I will have to get my source to order me some. Thanks guys and gals. Hope you are having better weather than we are.

Kathleen can you please send your bird my way!! That is a beautiful flower.

I wish I knew which type it was, Marie, I'd pamper them!