Description
Form: Herb.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Growth rate: Rapid.
Mature Size: 2-5' (0.6-1.5m) high with stalk, 1' (0.3m) wide.
Flowers: Pink to vivid red, tubular with five flared broad lobes, hairy at the bottom inside the tube, 3/4-1" (19-25mm) long, in clusters along a tall flower stem.
Bloom: Late winter into spring.
Fruit: Seed capsule.
Leaves: Green to blue-green, long and narrow, nearly round to pointed on the end, clasping their stem on opposite sides.
Stems: Reddish, sometimes drooping.
Wildlife: The flowers attract hummingbirds and large butterflies. The foliage is seldom browsed by rabbits.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: Arizona and Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8b-10.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade. This plant does better with afternoon shade in high temperatures.
Soil: Well draining, dry, sandy to gravelly, low organic content, pH 6.6-8.5 (neutral to alkaline).
Water once established: Once or twice a month, accommodating for rain. The soil must dry out between waterings.
Mulch: Small gravel can be used shade the root area from high temperatures.
Prune: Remove dead leaves and stems after the last freeze.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed should be planted in the fall. Seed planted late winter may not sprout until the second year unless cold stratified.
Uses: Ornamental, butterfly and hummingbird garden, low water (xeriscape) garden.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Penstemon and Plantain family (Plantaginaceae). Another common name for this plant is Desert Penstemon.

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