Firecracker Penstemon.
I cannot tell you how wrong I am finding some of the identifications for certain wild plants here. I am using several resources and some flowers are no where to be found or like this photo above was clearly erroneously marked as a different variety. The mistake was on a local reference site. The leaves are thin and jut outwards in this specimen but they identify it as one that with a little cross referencing and vision, it is plain as day that the leaves are flat, heart shaped and wide. Finally, I found the correct plant. And may I add that the US Dept. of Wildflowers doesn’t even mention this backyard treasure I am finding everywhere.
I wonder if my research on wild birds will prove so frustrating and difficult? Because I think with a little patience I can get a few pictures in here, if I just stay still long enough and have my camera ready.
This explanation for Penstemon Eatoni or Firecracker Penstemon from Mountain Wholesale Site:
“This perennial grows along sandy washes and slopes in the southwestern U.S., from 2000 to 7000 feet in elevation. It blooms in late winter to early spring with spikes of rich red flowers. Hummingbirds love it. Glossy dark green leaves form a ground-hugging rosette. Plant in full sun and well-drained soils. Avoid overwatering as this leads to premature plant loss. As with many Penstemons it will reseed readily.”
This wildflower is from the Figwort or Scrophulariaceae family.