Common name:Firecracker Penstemon
Botanical name:Penstemon eatonii

This perennial grows at a moderate rate to 1' x 1-1/2'. Bright green leaves form a rosette at the base of the plant. Scarlet spikes of flowers appear late winter to spring. Reseeds easily. Plant in fall for spring flowers. Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Accepts full sun to partial shade. Native to the southwest U.S. and Mexico. Similar to Penstemon barbatus but eatonii is earlier and more compact.

Common name:Hildeman's Cereus
Botanical name:Cereus hildemannianus

Tall, multi-stemmed plants that grow quickly and are more tolerant of regular watering than many cacti. Large, fragrant, white flowers occur at night in the summer followed by large, red fruit that is relished by birds and wildlife.