Tucson Preserve's New Garden Features Nearly 80 Penstemon Species

A desert preserve in Tucson recently inaugurated what it says is the most diverse penstemon garden in the Southwest.

Tohono Chul Park says the new 3,000-square-foot garden features nearly 80 penstemon species. Penstemons are a favorite of local pollinators, such as hummingbirds and butterflies, the preserve says.

The preserve also sells penstemons at its retail greenhouse. It says the plants are drought tolerant and wildlife friendly. Visitors to Tohono Chul can tour the penstemon garden to find the types of penstemons they like, then visit the greenhouse to purchase them.

Other recent improvements at Tohono Chul include a new entry path, with succulent gardens and a mesquite bosque, and the Desert Palm Oasis Garden.

Tohono Chul Park is located at 7366 N. Paseo del Norte in Tucson. It's open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and admission is $10 for adults ($5 for park members). For more information, call 520-742-6455 or visit www.tohonochulpark.org.