Penstemon eatonii

Firecracker Penstemon

PerennialEvergreenNative

Mature size: 1.5–3 ft tall
1–1.5 ft wide
Sun: Full Sun
Water use: Very Low
USDA zones: 4–8
Soil: Lean, drained
Bloom: Scarlet
Spring · Summer

Notable features

hummingbirdshowy bloomnative

Best companions for Firecracker Penstemon

Six water-wise companions matched on water use, sun, USDA zone, and how they layer visually beside Firecracker Penstemon.

Big Sagebrush

Native

Artemisia tridentata

Shrub3–6 ft tallZones 4–9

Strong match· 9.5

A reliable, well-suited combination.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife

Winterfat

Native

Krascheninnikovia lanata

Shrub1–3 ft tallZones 3–8

Strong match· 8.5

A reliable, well-suited combination.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Giant Sacaton

Native

Sporobolus wrightii

Grass4–6 ft tallZones 5–9

Good match· 8

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Rocky Mountain Juniper

Native

Juniperus scopulorum

Tree15–30 ft tallZones 3–7

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Pinyon Pine

Native

Pinus edulis

Tree10–20 ft tallZones 5–8

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Common Sunflower

Native

Helianthus annuus

Annual3–8 ft tallZones 2–11

Good match· 7

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

More that work

92 more compatible plants that pair well with Firecracker Penstemon, grouped by category. Pin any of them to your palette.

Shrub (37)

Fourwing Saltbush

Native

Atriplex canescens

Shrub3–6 ft tallZones 5–9

Good match· 8

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Silver Buffaloberry

Native

Shepherdia argentea

Shrub6–12 ft tallZones 3–7

Good match· 8

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Rubber Rabbitbrush

Native

Ericameria nauseosa

Shrub3–5 ft tallZones 4–9

Good match· 7.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Gray Rabbitbrush

Native

Chrysothamnus nauseosus

Shrub2–6 ft tallZones 4–6

Good match· 7

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Oregon Grape Holly

Native

Mahonia aquifolium

Shrub5–6 ft tallZones 3–9

Good match· 7

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Antelope Bitterbrush

Native

Purshia tridentata

Shrub5–8 ft tallZones 4–9

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Curlleaf Mountain Mahogany

Native

Cercocarpus ledifolius

Shrub10–15 ft tallZones 4–9

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Greenleaf Manzanita

Native

Arctostaphylos patula

Shrub4–6 ft tallZones 4–9

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Mountain Mahogany

Native

Cercocarpus montanus

Shrub5–10 ft tallZones 4–8

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Threeleaf Sumac

Native

Rhus trilobata

Shrub3–6 ft tallZones 4–8

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Apache Plume

Native

Fallugia paradoxa

Shrub3–5 ft tallZones 4–9

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Golden Currant

Native

Ribes aureum

Shrub4–6 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Kinnikinnick

Native

Arctostaphylos uvar-ursi

Shrub0.33–0.67 ft tallZones 2–6

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Snowberry

Native

Symphoricarpos albus

Shrub4–6 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Western Sand Cherry

Native

Prunus besseyi

Shrub4–6 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Blue Mist Spirea

Caryopteris x clandonensis

Shrub3–5 ft tallZones 5–10

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Supports pollinators and wildlife

Butterfly Bush

Buddleja davidii

Shrub5–8 ft tallZones 5–9

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering

Common Lilac

Syringa vulgaris

Shrub8–12 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Fernbush

Native

Chamaebatiaria millefolium

Shrub4–6 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Nannyberry

Viburnum lentago

Shrub15–18 ft tallZones 2–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Purpleleaf Sandcherry

Prunus x cistena

Shrub4–6 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Saskatoon Serviceberry

Native

Amelanchier alnifolia

Shrub6–12 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Smooth Sumac

Native

Rhus glabra

Shrub8–15 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Wax Currant

Native

Ribes cereum

Shrub3–5 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Wayfaring Tree

Viburnum lantana

Shrub10–15 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Woods' Rose

Native

Rosa woodsii

Shrub3–6 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Black Chokeberry

Aronia melanocarpa

Shrub3–6 ft tallZones 3–9

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife

Peking Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster acutifolius

Shrub6–10 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife

Shrubby Cinquefoil

Native

Dasiphora fruticosa

Shrub2–4 ft tallZones 2–7

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Siberian Peashrub

Caragana arborescens

Shrub10–15 ft tallZones 2–7

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Banana Yucca

Native

Yucca baccata

Shrub2–3 ft tallZones 5–9

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Boulder Raspberry

Native

Rubus deliciosus

Shrub3–5 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Meyer Lilac

Syringa meyeri

Shrub4–8 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Mountain Ninebark

Native

Physocarpus monogynus

Shrub3–5 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Soapweed Yucca

Native

Yucca glauca

Shrub2–4 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Forsythia

Forsythia cultivars

Shrub6–8 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look

Mugo Pine

Pinus mugo

Shrub2–20 ft tallZones 2–7

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look

Grass (8)

Switchgrass

Native

Panicum virgatum

Grass3–4 ft tallZones 4–9

Good match· 7

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Feather Reed Grass

Calamagrostis x acutiflora

Grass3–6 ft tallZones 4–10

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form

Little Bluestem

Native

Schizachyrium scoparium

Grass2–3 ft tallZones 4–9

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Blue Grama

Native

Bouteloua gracilis

Grass1–2 ft tallZones 3–9

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Buffalograss

Native

Bouteloua dactyloides

Grass0.3–0.8 ft tallZones 3–9

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Fountain Grass

Pennisetum alopecuroides

Grass2–3 ft tallZones 4–9

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form

Indian Ricegrass

Native

Achnatherum hymenoides

Grass1–2 ft tallZones 4–9

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Blue Fescue

Festuca glauca

Grass0.75–1 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Fine grass texture contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon's form

Tree (22)

Gambel Oak

Native

Quercus gambelii

Tree15–30 ft tallZones 4–8

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

New Mexico Privet

Native

Forestiera neomexicana

Tree10–18 ft tallZones 4–8

Good match· 6.5

Works well together.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Bur Oak

Native

Quercus macrocarpa

Tree50–70 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Chokecherry

Native

Prunus virginiana

Tree20–30 ft tallZones 2–6

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Ponderosa Pine

Native

Pinus ponderosa

Tree50–60 ft tallZones 3–6

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Western Larch

Native

Larix occidentalis

Tree100–180 ft tallZones 4–7

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Common Hackberry

Native

Celtis occidentalis

Tree40–60 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Flowering Crabapple

Malus hybrids

Tree15–20 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Quaking Aspen

Native

Populus tremuloides

Tree30–40 ft tallZones 1–8

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Rocky Mountain Maple

Native

Acer glabrum

Tree20–30 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Thornless Honeylocust

Native

Gleditsia triacanthos inermis

Tree35–40 ft tallZones 3–9

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Amur Maple

Acer ginnala

Tree15–20 ft tallZones 2–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Bigtooth Maple

Native

Acer grandidentatum

Tree20–30 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Bristlecone Pine

Native

Pinus aristata

Tree10–30 ft tallZones 4–7

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Green Ash

Fraxinus pennsylvanica

Tree40–60 ft tallZones 3–9

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Kentucky Coffeetree

Native

Gymnocladus dioicus

Tree50–70 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Pin Oak

Quercus palustris

Tree60–70 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Red Oak

Quercus rubra

Tree60–70 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Austrian Pine

Pinus nigra

Tree40–50 ft tallZones 4–7

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look

Goldenrain Tree

Koelreuteria paniculata

Tree20–30 ft tallZones 5–9

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look

Limber Pine

Pinus flexilis ‘Vanderwolf ’

Tree30–40 ft tallZones 4–7

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look

Weeping Mulberry

Morus alba 'Chaparral'

Tree8 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look

Groundcover (15)

Creeping Mahonia

Native

Mahonia repens

Groundcover1–1.5 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Fringed Sage

Native

Artemisia frigida

Groundcover0.5–1.5 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Hardy Ice Plant

Delosperma cooperi

Groundcover0.25–0.5 ft tallZones 5–9

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Woolly Thyme

Thymus pseudolanuginosus

Groundcover0.08–0.17 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Mount Atlas Daisy

Anacyclus depressus

Groundcover0.08–0.17 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Snow-in-Summer

Cerastium tomentosum

Groundcover0.5–1 ft tallZones 3–7

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Yellow Ice Plant

Delosperma nubigenum

Groundcover0.1–0.25 ft tallZones 4–9

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Creeping Juniper

Native

Juniperus horizontalis

Groundcover0.5–1.5 ft tallZones 3–9

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Creeping Potentilla

Native

Potentilla verna-nana

Groundcover0.17–0.25 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

False rock cress

Aubrieta deltoidea

Groundcover0.25–0.67 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Lamb's Ear

Stachys byzantina

Groundcover0.5–1.5 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon

Partridge Feather

Tanacetum densum

Groundcover0.33–0.5 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon

Rock Soapwort

Saponaria ocymoides

Groundcover0.33–0.42 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space

Creeping Phlox

Native

Phlox subulata

Groundcover0.33–0.5 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Hens and Chicks

Sempervivum tectorum

Groundcover0.25–0.5 ft tallZones 3–8

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Vine (5)

Trumpet Vine

Native

Campsis radicans

Vine15 ft tallZones 4–9

Worth considering· 6

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Silver Lace Vine

Fallopia aubertii

Vine15–25 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering

Virginia Creeper

Native

Parthenocissus quinquefolia

Vine30–50 ft tallZones 3–9

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Supports pollinators and wildlife
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Common Hops

Native

Humulus lupulus

Vine20 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Fire-resistant — good for defensible space
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Western Virgin's Bower

Native

Clematis ligusticifolia

Vine15–20 ft tallZones 4–8

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Noticeable height difference for a layered look
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon

Annual (4)

Moss Rose

Portulaca grandiflora

Annual0.25–0.5 ft tallZones 2–11

Worth considering· 5.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

California Poppy

Native

Eschscholzia californica

Annual0.5–1 ft tallZones 2–11

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Native to the region, like Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone

Cosmos

Cosmos bipinnatus

Annual2–4 ft tallZones 2–11

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering

Narrowleaf Zinnia

Zinnia angustifolia

Annual0.75–1.5 ft tallZones 2–11

Worth considering· 4.5

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Different structural layer than Firecracker Penstemon
Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering

Perennial (1)

Russian Sage

Salvia yangii

Perennial3–4 ft tallZones 4–9

Worth considering· 4

Compatible on water, sun, and zone. Whether the combination reads well is your call.

Blooms in fall — extends color when Firecracker Penstemon isn't flowering
Silver foliage contrasts with Firecracker Penstemon
Same water needs as Firecracker Penstemon — one irrigation zone