Penstemon pinifolius 'Compactum' (Beardtongue) is hands down one of the very best native wildflowers for water-wise gardens. This tiny shrub has a profusion of bright scarlet flowers in late spring and tidy, tight growing branches of evergreen pine needle-like leaves. Perfect for borders or accenting larger perennials. A High Country Gardens Introduction. Drought resistant/drought tolerant plant (xeric).