There are over 250 Penstemon species, mostly native to our western states and Mexico. Their flowers range from blue to white to red, with several bi-colors. The common name, Bearded Tongue may surprise wildflower gardeners, since many of the the wild Penstemons are called Beard Tongue. But according to Allan Armitage and other perennial experts, Bearded Tongue is the correct common name for the perennials.