Firecracker Penstemon (Penstemon eatonii) is a favorite among the many native penstemons that grow in Utah and a hummingbird magnet! Important to indigenous populations, this plant was used to treat spider and snake bites, burns, stomach troubles, and reduce bleeding. Lance-shaped leathery green leaves are topped with bright red tubular flowers from the end of spring through mid summer. These flowers attract a wide range of pollinators and add a striking vertical accent to any garden bed, border, cottage garden, rock garden, pollinator garden, or natural prairie or meadow planting. These beautiful plants are extremely low maintenance and drought tolerant. They are somewhat tolerant of urban pollution.
Expected 2025 Availability- Late April
Firecracker Penstemon
Irrigation Requirement: Very Low (Water to Establish)
Mature Size: 18 - 24" tall and 16 - 24" wide
Spacing: 20 - 24" apart
Bloom Colors: Red
Bloom Season: May - July
Hardiness Zone: 4 - 8
Light Requirement: Full Sun or Partial Shade
Deer Resistant: Yes
Salt Tolerant: Unknown
Soils: Requires well-draining soil, usually sand or loam. Prefers lower fertility soil. Does not do well in clay soil.
Plants in the Penstemon genus are host species to 19 known native pollinators in northern Utah. Penstemon also provide an important nectar source for many pollinators, including hummingbirds.