This species of penstemon (sometime commonly called southwestern penstemon) is a clump-forming perennial which typically grows 18 to 30 inches tall and about half as wide. It has loose terminal racemes of reddish-orange, two-lipped, tubular flowers (to 2" long) atop erect, rigid stems. Flowers bloom in late spring to summer. Leaves are clasping (they encircle the stem), narrow, lance-shaped, and medium green; the basal foliage is more oval. Great early summer color for the perennial border.
Grow in full sun and well-drained soil. Wet soils can lead to root rot. Cutting back flower spires after blooming may result in a lesser re-blooming in the late summer. Cut back in late winter to early spring, taking care to not damage crown.