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:Angelita Daisy
Botanical name:Tetraneuris acaulis
A small, dense perennial growing quickly to 1' x 1' round clumps. Golden yellow 1" daisylike flowers appear year-round, heaviest in spring. Prefers full sun, but accepts partial shade. Colorful and persistent. Great for small spaces. Native to the southwestern U.S.