SafePlants

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja spp.)

The vibrant "Indian Paintbrush" refers to a genus (Castilleja) of herbaceous plants, also known as prairie fire and painted cup.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the plant roots may connect with the roots of other plants.

Considerations for Children

• The flowers are described as being edible, and consumed in moderation by various Native American tribes, suggesting historical use.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Castilleja
• Family: Orobanchaceae (formerly Scrophulariaceae)
• Species Examples: Castilleja ambigua ssp. humboldtiensis, Castilleja densiflora ssp. gracilis, Castilleja coccinea, Castilleja lanata, Castilleja gracillima, Castilleja arvensis, Castilleja indivisa, Castilleja affinis
• Common Names: Indian Paintbrush, Prairie Fire, Painted Cup, Red Indian Paintbrush, Harsh Paintbrush, Cliff Paintbrush, Sierra Woolly Indian Paintbrush, Woolly Paintbrush, Field Indian Paintbrush, Scarlet Painted-Cup, Texas Indian Paintbrush, Entireleaf Indian Paintbrush, Texas Paintbrush

Distribution and Habitat

• Indian Paintbrush is native to North America and found in diverse environments, including alvars, moist areas, and meadows.
• Specific regions mentioned include California (Carrizo Plain, Orange County), Minnesota, New England, Montana and Texas.
• They are often found in close proximity to the ocean.

Morphological Characteristics

• These are perennial, biennial, or annual herbs, typically 15-60 cm high.
• Leaves are alternate.
• The "flowers" are borne in dense, bracted spikes, often bright red, reddish-orange, or occasionally other colors. The colored portion is actually leafy bracts.
• True flowers are described as whitish green or yellow and inconspicuous.
• Some species, like Castilleja lanata, have leaves densely covered with matted, flattened hairs.
• Some species, such as Castilleja arvensis, have stems that are erect and densely hairy.

Ecological Role

• Some species of Indian Paintbrush are hemiparasitic, acting as partial root parasites of nearby plants.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Elk are mentioned to relish the flowers and seedpods of some Indian Paintbrush species.

Quirky Facts

• The flowers of Indian Paintbrush are edible and were consumed in moderation by various Native American tribes as a condiment with other fresh greens.