Eaton's Penstemon is a brilliant scarlet-flowered wildflower of the Colorado Plateau and Mojave Desert regions, blooming in early spring along desert washes and rocky slopes. Its tubular flowers are shaped exclusively for broad-tailed and rufous hummingbirds, which are its primary pollinators. It is one of the most visually striking desert wildflowers.
Best time to see a Eaton's Penstemon
The best time to see a Eaton's Penstemon is May–June, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 4,103 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Eaton's Penstemon? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Eaton's Penstemon sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an Eaton's Penstemon?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.