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giant red Indian paintbrush
Scientific Name: Castilleja miniata ssp. dixonii
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb, Subshrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Giant Red Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja miniata)
The Castilleja miniata, commonly known as the giant red Indian paintbrush, is a striking wildflower native to western North America. Its vibrant red bracts add a splash of color to various landscapes, from Alaska to the southwestern USA.
Considerations for Pets
- Most Indian paintbrushes are partial parasites, establishing root connections with other plants. While not explicitly stated as toxic, any plant with parasitic behavior has the potential to affect other surrounding plants if consumed.
Considerations for Children
- Most Indian paintbrushes are partial parasites, establishing root connections with other plants. While not explicitly stated as toxic, any plant with parasitic behavior has the potential to affect other surrounding plants if consumed.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Castilleja miniata Douglas ex Hook.
- Common Names: Giant red Indian paintbrush, scarlet paintbrush, meadow paintbrush
- Family: Orobanchaceae (Broomrape family) (previously in Scrophulariaceae)
- Synonyms: Castilleja confusa, Castilleja inconstans, Castilleja miniata ssp. miniata, Castilleja oblongifolia, Castilleja uliginosa
- Taxonomic Rank: Species; some sources mention a subspecies Castilleja miniata ssp. dixonii
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to western North America, ranging from Alaska to the west and southwest USA.
- Found in various environments, including mountain streams in Oregon and the temperate rainforest of the Pacific Northwest.
- Observed at elevations such as 1000 meters (3300 feet) on Granite Mountain Trail.
Ecological Role
- Most Indian paintbrushes, including Castilleja miniata, are partial parasites. They attach to the roots of other plants to obtain water and nutrients.
Morphological Characteristics
- Characterized by its vibrant red bracts (modified leaves) that give the plant its "painted" appearance.
- The plant features a long corolla beak (galea).
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Observed growing beneath stands of Western Horsemint or Giant Hyssop (Agastache urticifolia).
Further Resources
- Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Castilleja miniata.
- Dave's Garden: A community platform for sharing gardening tips and ideas.