SafePlants

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja sp.)

The Indian Paintbrush, with its vibrant red, orange, or yellow blossoms, is a striking wildflower native to the western United States. Often found in the company of sagebrush, this plant adds a splash of color to dry landscapes.

Considerations for Pets

• Indian Paintbrush is a partial root-parasite.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Scrophulariaceae

Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Castilleja sp.
• Synonyms: Castilleja lineariloba

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the western United States.
• Commonly found in dry sagebrush scrub and pinyon/juniper woodland.
• Grows at elevations ranging from 1000 to 3000 meters.
• Specific locations mentioned include Wyoming, Oregon (Steens Mountain), and the Mono Lake Basin in California.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Perennial plant.
• Flowering time: May to September.
• Seeds usually germinate in the fall and bloom the next spring without pre-treatment.

Ecological Role

• Indian Paintbrush is a partial root-parasite, intertwining its roots with other plants, such as sagebrush, lupine, and grasses, to obtain nutrients.
• It can parasitize on many plant species.
• Acts as a host plant to desert species of paintbrush.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Often found growing alongside sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), lupine, blue grama grass, and penstemons.
• Lupine produces alkaloids.
• Bastard toad-flaxes are often parasites on sagebrush but can attach to almost anything.

Quirky Facts

• The flowers of Indian Paintbrush are edible and sweet.
• Indian Paintbrush was designated the state flower of Wyoming in 1917.

Further Resources

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
• Saint Mary's College of California: Source of information on Castilleja lineariloba.