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coast Indian paintbrush

Scientific Name: Castilleja affinis ssp. affinis

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb, Subshrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Coast Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja affinis)

The Castilleja affinis, commonly known as Coast Indian Paintbrush, is a vibrant wildflower native to western North America. Its striking colors and adaptability make it a fascinating subject for gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

  • Coast Indian Paintbrush
  • Indian Paintbrush
  • Prairie-fire
  • Wight's Indian Paintbrush
  • Martin's Paintbrush
  • Wavyleaf Indian Paintbrush
  • Dixon's Paintbrush

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Castilleja affinis
  • Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrape family) - Previously included in Scrophulariaceae.
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species; also subspecies such as Castilleja affinis ssp. affinis and Castilleja affinis subsp. litoralis

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to western North America, ranging from Washington to Baja California.
  • Frequently found along the coast, including locations such as Pescadero Marsh and the Mendocino Coast.
  • Also found in the Bay Area, Inner South Coast Ranges, Southwestern California, east of the Sierra Nevada, and in desert regions.
  • Specific locations mentioned include Garland Ranch and Palo Corona.
  • Also reported in the Cleveland Peninsula region of Southeast Alaska.

Ecological Role

  • Castilleja affinis is a photosynthetic root parasite (hemiparasite). This means it obtains some of its nutrients by tapping into the roots of other plants.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Perennial herb.
  • Grows a stem up to a certain height (details not provided in the source text).
  • Features tubular yellow-green flowers.
  • Some varieties have very little hair and non-notched leaves.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • As a hemiparasite, it forms connections with other plants' roots.

Historical/Traditional Use

  • The text indicates that the Indian Paintbrush has been used by the Maidu people for food and as a diuretic.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for gardening tips and ideas.
  • Discover Life offers information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Castilleja affinis.
  • California Academy of Sciences is a source of information, with Gladys Lucille Smith being associated with a record from 1999.