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Firecracker Penstemon
Penstemon eatoni
In stock
1 gallon
Plant Care
Native region:
Sonoran Desert; Mojave Desert
Water needs:
Low - Moderate
Exposure:
Mature size:
Growth rate:
Full Sun
2'x3'
Moderate
Flower color:
Flower season:
Pruning:
Red
Spring
Cut back spent stems
Wildlife
Monarchs:
Yes
Nectar pollinators:
Yes
Nighttime pollinators:
No
Rabbit resistant:
Yes
Known by the common name Eaton's Firecracker. It is native to the western United States from California to the Rocky Mountains, where it grows in many types of desert, woodland, forest, and open plateau habitat. In California it is found primarily in high desert areas.
In the low desert it blooms in late winter to early spring with spikes of rich red flowers. Hummingbirds love it! Glossy dark green (dull green in drought) leaves form a low clump. Plant in full sun and well-drained soils. Might suffer in intense summer heat if given a full western exposure.
This is a wonderfully spectacular short-lived accent perennial for mixed winter and spring desert gardens. Will reseed, though not aggressively, which is to one's advantage.
Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information
The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!
Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.
Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.