Review by Louise Parsons
Look really hard! In the above drawing by Robin Lodewick (used here with her gracious permission) can you also find the smallest penstemon ? No? Maybe then you need to upgrade your skills and get this key.
Recently published is a new Key to the Genus Penstemon and its related Genera in the Tribe Cheloneae (Scrophulariaceae) by Robin and Kenneth Lodewick. Something interesting to learn every day: did you know that there is a penstemon that is some 280 cm ( 9 feet) tall? Robin provides this charming drawing of this towering over a botanist
I have been test-driving this key and find it easy and enjoyable to use. It includes not only the 270 species of penstemon, but also the chelone, keckiella, nothochelone, and pennellianthus in Group One and the two species of chionophila in Group Two. It is sized to fit in a backpack and sturdy enough to take along for field use.
There is a glossary and other features such as a quick key to help you get started. Robin's illustrations add both charm and clarity to the work. The introduction provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the genus. For penstemon-lovers, a must-have!
The price for the key is US $15. Penstemon Nomenclature is priced at US$11. APS members please follow instructions in the APS Bulletin for ordering. Be sure to state your membership status when ordering. Both the key and nomenclature are available from Robin and Kenneth Lodewick at: 2526 University Street Eugene, ORegon 97403