SafePlants

Tiburon Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja neglecta)

The Tiburon Indian Paintbrush, scientifically known as Castilleja neglecta, is also referred to as the Tiburon paintbrush. It is an endangered subspecies of flowering plant within the Castilleja genus.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the flowers are edible.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Castilleja neglecta
• Common Names: Tiburon Indian Paintbrush, Tiburon Paintbrush, Indian Paintbrush, Prairie-fire
• Family: Broomrape Family (implied by mention of genus belonging to this family)
• Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies
• Synonyms: Castilleja affinis spp. neglecta, Castilleja neglecta Zeile, Castilleja affinis ssp. neglecta (Zeile) T.I. Chuang & Heckard

Distribution and Habitat

• The Tiburon Indian Paintbrush is associated with Tiburon, California, and Ring Mountain.
• It is a native plant species found in open spaces within Tiburon.

Ecological Role

• The plant is identified as an endangered wildflower.
• This species was listed as threatened by the California Department of Fish and Game in January 1990.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is described as a perennial herb.
• The plant is known for its red, orange, or yellow blossoms. The color actually comes from the bracts that grow below the flowers.

Quirky Facts

• The text mentions that the flowers of Indian paintbrush are edible and were consumed in moderation by various Native Americans.
• The common name "prairie-fire" alludes to the plant's vibrant coloration.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The Tiburon Indian Paintbrush is mentioned in connection with the Santa Clara Valley Habitat Conservation Plan, suggesting interactions with protected species and habitat management efforts.
• It's mentioned along with the Bay Checkerspot Butterfly, suggesting a possible ecological relationship.

Further Information

• Dr. Robert T. and Margaret Orr of the California Academy of Sciences are associated with detailed records of the Tiburon Indian Paintbrush (1999).