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field Indian paintbrush

Scientific Name: Castilleja arvensis

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Indian Paintbrush

The term "Indian Paintbrush" refers to several species of plants, often recognized by their vibrant red-orange coloring and association with fields and prairies.

Considerations for Children

  • Indian Paintbrush often grows in fields and open woods, areas that children may frequent for play and exploration.

Common Names

  • Indian Paintbrush
  • Scarlet Paintbrush
  • Texas Paintbrush
  • Field Indian Paintbrush
  • Slender Indian Paintbrush

Scientific Names

  • Castilleja arvensis
  • Castilleja indivisa
  • Castilleja chromosa (Desert Indian Paintbrush)
  • Castilleja angustifolia (Desert Indian Paintbrush)
  • Castilleja gracillima (Slender Indian Paintbrush)
  • Castilleja miniata ssp. miniata (Synonym for Castilleja gracillima)
  • Castilleja grisea (San Clemente Island Indian Paintbrush)
  • Castilleja applegatei

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Not specified in the text.
  • Castilleja arvensis Cham. & Schltdl. is mentioned.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Found in native prairielands.
  • Occurs in fields, prairies, and glades, as well as seepy areas with wet soil.
  • Specifically mentioned in Texas, Minnesota, and Montana (southwest).
  • Giant Red Indian Paintbrush grows throughout the Silver Star area.
  • Castilleja grisea is native to San Clemente Island.
  • Most commonly found in fields with dry soil.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Clusters of flowers are typically 1 to 2 inches across.
  • Grown as an annual or biennial.
  • Castilleja indivisa reaches 6 inches in height.

Ecological Role

  • Castilleja arvensis is listed in "Invasive Species Most Unwanted."
  • Indian paintbrush parasitizes lupines, producing twice as many seeds.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Often seen growing alongside Texas Bluebonnets.
  • Host species did not affect pollinator preference for Indian paintbrush in the field.

Quirky Facts

  • In Texas, Indian Paintbrush is sometimes considered the "sidekick" to the Texas Bluebonnet.

Resources and Further Information

  • Pinterest is mentioned as a visual bookmarking tool with information.
  • Native American Seed is listed as a vendor.
  • Shutterstock and Getty Images offer stock photos.
  • USDA PLANTS database is referenced.
  • Invasive Plant Atlas is mentioned.
  • Silver Star Oregon Hikers Field Guide is mentioned.
  • Texas Wildflowers: A Field Guide (1984) Loughmiller, C. & L.