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coastal red Indian paintbrush
Scientific Name: Castilleja hyetophila
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Castilleja: The Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja, commonly known as Indian paintbrush or prairie-fire, is a genus containing about 200 species.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- Some species grow near the coast and have fleshier leaves.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Castilleja Mutis ex L. f.
- Common Names: Indian paintbrush, prairie-fire
- Examples of Species:
- Castilleja hyetophila Pennell (Coastal red Indian paintbrush)
- Castilleja affinis (Coast Indian paintbrush)
- Castilleja miniata (Common red paintbrush, Giant red Indian paintbrush, Scarlet paintbrush)
- Subspecies Examples:
- Castilleja affinis ssp. litoralis (Coast Indian paintbrush, Seashore indian paintbrush)
- Castilleja affinis ssp. affinis (Coast Indian Paintbrush)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to western North America, from Washington to Baja California.
- Found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, coastal bluffs, deserts, and vernal pools.
- Several species, including Castilleja affinis, are native to California and grow along the Pacific Coast.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Indian paintbrushes are often perennial herbs.
- Plants growing nearer the coast can have fleshier leaves and an inflated calyx.
- Leaves are long and narrow.
- Flowers are often red, orange, or yellow and appear as if they have been dipped in paint.
Ecological Role
- Indian paintbrush can steal nutrients and water from other plants' roots.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Bright red Indian paintbrush steals nutrients and water from other plants' roots.
Further Information
- Discover Life offers information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Castilleja hyetophila.