How To Order: Quantity options listed represent bulk weights. Examples: 1 = 1 lbs, 25 = 25 bs.
Common Name: Firecracker Penstemon
Scientific Name: Penstemon eatonii
Native / Introduced: Native
Main Uses:
~Soil erosion control
~As a pollinator
~Beautification projects
~Wildlife habitat improvement
Height: 2-4 feet
Colors: Bright Red
Flowering Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
Elevation: 2,000-8,000 ft
Soil Types: All textures
Tolerances:
~Weak acid and alkali
~Drought and cold
Sun or Shade: Full sun
Minimum Precipitation: 8-20 in.
Lifecycle: Perennial
Planting Seed Rate: 1.5-3 lbs/ac
Estimated Seeds Per Pound: 325,000
Optimal Planting Season: Fall
Planting Depth: 1/4 - 1/8 in.
Stratification Requirements: 40 degrees for 1-2 months
Description
Firecracker penstemon, also referred to as Eaton’s Penstemon, is a perennial desert flower indigenous to the western regions of the United States, commonly found from Colorado to California. Sporting lance-shaped green leaves, it boasts vibrant red tubular flowers with a flared trumpet-like appearance. Thriving in dry and arid environments, this robust plant favors well-drained soils, particularly infertile or disturbed ones. With remarkable cold and drought resilience, it can endure mildly saline to weakly acidic conditions.
Highly sought after for its vivid blooms, Firecracker penstemon is a favored choice in garden beds and landscaping projects. Its flowering season spans from late spring to early summer, drawing in hummingbirds and other pollinators. Additionally utilized for erosion control and aesthetic enhancements, it holds some appeal to deer, antelope, and birds, whether for herbage or seeds. Although its lifespan is relatively short, it self-propagates on suitable terrains, ensuring its presence persists.
Resources
NRCS Plant Profile: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PEEAE2
NRCS Plant Guide: https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_peeae2.pdf
Additional Resources: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=peea
