Quick answer: Firecracker penstemon (Penstemon eatonii) is native to 3 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seeds, verified 04 Nov 2026.
Photo: Stan Shebs, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Dry, gravelly soils |
| Bloom | May-Aug |
| Height | Up to 3 ft |
| Wildlife value | Attracts hummingbirds, special value to native bees |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 04 Nov 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Firecracker penstemon
Where is Firecracker penstemon native?
Firecracker penstemon (Penstemon eatonii) is native to Arizona, California and Nevada. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Firecracker penstemon bloom?
Firecracker penstemon blooms May-Aug. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Firecracker penstemon need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Dry. Soil: Dry, gravelly soils. Mature height: Up to 3 ft.
Is Firecracker penstemon good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts hummingbirds, special value to native bees.
Is Firecracker penstemon deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Firecracker penstemon is deer-resistant, drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Firecracker penstemon seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 04 Nov 2026. Look for the scientific name Penstemon eatonii on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Firecracker penstemon.
- Palmer's penstemon Penstemon palmeri
- Brittlebush Encelia farinosa
- Silvery lupine Lupinus argenteus
- Creosote bush Larrea tridentata
- Bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
- Desert marigold Baileya multiradiata
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.