Firecracker Penstemon

penstemon eatonii

Also known as: ["Firecracker Beardtongue"]

Family: Plantaginaceae Genus: Penstemon Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial wildflower native to western North America, known for its vibrant red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Plantaginaceae
Genus: Penstemon
Botanical Name: Penstemon eatonii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–18–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning as needed during growing season.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but blooms best in full sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday heat in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor drainage); leaf scorch (too much sun).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid deep shade for flowering.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.

Temperature

Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates cold down to 0°F (-18°C) but thrives in moderate temperatures.

Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during spring and summer

Fertilize sparingly to avoid leggy growth; stop before flowering peaks; use a low-nitrogen formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a propagator; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadhead spent blooms; trim back straggly stems to a healthy node.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Clean tools; deadhead regularly; trim selectively for shape.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out circling roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Prefers slightly root-bound conditions.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water after repotting; place in shade for a day.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation. Avoid overhead watering to minimize leaf diseases.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and allow foliage to dry before night.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or necrosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged freezing without protection.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers or move to a sheltered location if in a pot.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat without adequate water.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Penstemon eatonii may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations. It can also be a sign of stress from environmental factors such as excessive sunlight or poor soil drainage.

Wilting in Penstemon eatonii is often caused by water stress, either from drought or overwatering. It can also result from root damage due to pests or diseases, leading to impaired water uptake.

Leaf spots on Penstemon eatonii may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity. Common symptoms include necrotic spots with distinct margins.

Rotting in Penstemon eatonii is typically associated with root or stem rot caused by fungal pathogens in poorly drained soils. This can lead to plant decline and death if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Penstemon eatonii is not known to be toxic to cats. It is generally safe for feline ingestion in small amounts.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Penstemon eatonii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested in small amounts.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor your dog if they consume large quantities of any plant material. Contact a veterinarian if digestive upset or unusual behavior occurs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Penstemon eatonii is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended. Consult a healthcare professional if unusual symptoms occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Penstemon eatonii require much water?

A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil with minimal watering once established.

Q: What pollinators does this plant attract?

A: It primarily attracts hummingbirds and bees due to its tubular red flowers.

Q: Is Penstemon eatonii toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Quick Reference
Family: Plantaginaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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