There are many different penstemons in the Northwest, and often it is difficult to determine which is which, or who is who. It is essential to look at the leaves of each flowering plant in order to finalize its identity. Many penstemons are blue/purple, many are red/pink, and some are white or yellow. Some have larger flowers while some are smaller. The location of the staminode is also important, with the Cascades Penstemon being on the lower lip of the petals.