Early Greeks and Romans dipped dried mullein stalks in tallow to make lampwicks. The English named it “Torchweed” and the Spanish called it “Candelaria.”
Mullein
82. ROYAL PENSTEMONFigwort Family
Penstemon speciosus
This species, also known as Purple Penstemon, is found in much the same habitats as the Blue Penstemon. It is generally abundant along roadsides at elevations above 4,500 feet. It is fairly common at Cedar Breaks and at Bryce Canyon. The flowers vary in color from deep blue to dark purple, and the stalks vary in height from 12 to 20 inches.
Royal Penstemon
83. EATON PENSTEMONFigwort Family
Penstemon eatoni
Found mostly in the cool canyons, this plant is sometimes confused with the Skyrocket Gilia or the Western Cardinalflower, which it resembles somewhat. Penstemon usually has a greater number of blooms on each flower stalk than do these flowers that appear like it. This variety is not nearly as common as many other Penstemons in these areas. It is far more brilliantly colored, however, which accounts for such common names as Scarlet Bugler and Scarlet Penstemon.
