Beardlip Penstemon

Description:

Scattered all along a hiking trail, this vibrant red-flower plant is also known as prairie-fire. A very thin stalk, folded-in leaves, and the red taquito-like flowers define this particular one. Unfortunately, my camera's macro was not working with me that day, but the next photos I'll have should look clearer!

Habitat:

Occurs in groups and at a decent range of elevation, from about 6,000 to 8,000 feet.

Notes:

At least one foot and up to four feet tall. My first thought that it was a kind of indian paintbrush, i.e. Castilleja species. But upon turning to a listing of flowers in the southeastern Arizona area, Castilleja does not occur there.