Common Names: Firecracker Penstemon Latin Name: Penstemon eatonii Species Origin: US Native Wildflower Type: Native Wildflowers Life Cycle: Perennial USDA Zones: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert Stratification: Cold/Wet for 8 Weeks Germination Ease: Stratify 8 Weeks Sunlight: Full Sun Height: 18 Inches Color: Red Bloom Season: Blooms Late Spring, Blooms Early Summer Uses: Attracts Pollinators, Hummingbirds, Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant Sowing: Direct sow in late fall, pressing into the surface of the soil since this seed needs light to germinate. For spring planting, mix the Eaton's Penstemon seeds with moist sand and store in the refrigerator for 30-60 days before planting. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination. This seed can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before planting in the spring. Growing: Water seedlings until they become established. This plant develops rather slowly, and usually begins blooming in its second year. Mature plants tolerate drought well, though they also appreciate occasional watering in especially dry weather; excessive heat and dryness can cause wilting. This plant grows well in rocky soil, and has excellent resistance to disease and pests. After blooming cut the plant back to several inches above the soil, unless seed is wanted. Do not overwater, since this plant is particularly susceptible to root rot if the soil becomes too moist. If seeds are not required, cut the plant back after blooming has finished. This plant often self-sows, and is highly attractive to bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.