growing in a very sunny, dry location in my neighborhood
Hi Art,
your plant is a non-native popular garden plant called ‘red hot poker’, Kniphofia uvaria, related to the aloes and lilies. It is quite striking with its red color. I don’t think I’ve ever seen it as a garden escape, it was probably planted. This is one of a group of species commonly grown, and you can find out more about it here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kniphofia
I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Steve Hill, Botanist, SCNPS