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:Aloe
Botanical name:Aloe massawana

Al low growing aloe that makes a modest number of pups. Use generously to fillin dry spots in the shade. The yellow and red toned flowers are on tall stalks over the foliage in the late winter and spring. They are attractive to hummingbirds.