Water Wise Wednesday
Firecracker Penstemon Named July's Desert-Friendly Plant of the Month
The Coachella Valley Water District is spotlighting the Firecracker Penstemon as its Desert-Friendly Plant of the Month, encouraging residents to add the colorful, water-wise plant to their landscapes.
During this week's Water Wise Wednesday segment, Communications Manager Lorraine Garcia explained that the Firecracker Penstemon is well-suited for the Coachella Valley's desert climate. The plant features bright green stems and colorful tubular flowers that bloom from spring through mid-summer.
Garcia said the "Firecracker" designation refers to one of the plant's varieties, which comes in several different colors and can add vibrant accents to desert gardens.
The Firecracker Penstemon thrives in full sun and grows best in the sandy, rocky soil commonly found throughout the Coachella Valley. As a drought-tolerant species, it requires relatively little water, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking to conserve water while maintaining attractive landscaping.
Garcia also noted that if the desert receives summer monsoon rainfall, the plant may bloom again later in the season.
Residents interested in incorporating the Firecracker Penstemon into their gardens are encouraged to visit local nurseries, where they can also find other desert-friendly plants suited to the region's climate.
The monthly Water Wise Wednesday series, presented by the Coachella Valley Water District, provides gardening and water conservation tips to help residents create sustainable landscapes throughout the desert.
By: NBC Palm Springs
July 8, 2026
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