Firecracker Penstemon (Penstemon eatonii) is a striking native penstemon with attractive lance-shaped green leaves and tall, elegant flower stalks covered in brilliant red, tubular blooms. It grows to about 1–3 feet tall and wide and flowers in spring and early summer. Highly heat tolerant, it is well suited to desert and dry gardens and can tolerate more shade than many other penstemons. Its vibrant red flowers are especially attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a wonderful choice for a wildlife-friendly garden. This versatile plant works well in borders, rock gardens, native plantings, or tucked into smaller spaces where its bold blooms can stand out. It prefers well-drained soil and, while drought tolerant once established, occasional deep watering during the hottest part of summer will help keep it looking its best.