The colors below indicate the kind of documentation available for this species
in the California counties where it occurs.
Beardtongue Penstemon labrosus (Scrophulariaceae)
The generic name Penstemon is derived from Greek words meaning five stamens. Four of the stamens are easily seen. They arch out under the upper lip of the corolla. The fifth does not produce pollen, and is called a staminode. It lies along the floor of the floral tube. Other species of Penstemon have hairy staminodes which give this genus the common name Beardtongue. This redflowered species has a smooth "tongue" so perhaps it should be called the "Shaved Beardtongue".
DISTRIBUTION: Juniper/pinyon woodland, pine and mixed hardwood forests through the Transverse and Peninsular Ranges; 1500-2400 m.
