SafePlants

No images found for this plant ID: 8111.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "8111" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Dogs?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Cats?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Reptiles?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

softleaf Indian paintbrush

Scientific Name: Castilleja mollis

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja)

Indian paintbrush, commonly known as prairie-fire, belongs to the genus Castilleja. This vibrant plant offers a splash of color to various landscapes and has a rich history of uses.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text notes the presence of hairs on the leaves and stems in some species, which could cause mild irritation if ingested or come into contact with sensitive skin.

Considerations for Children

  • The text notes the presence of hairs on the leaves and stems in some species, which could cause mild irritation if touched.
  • Some species have lance-shaped leaves with pointed tips.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Castilleja
  • Common Names: Indian Paintbrush, Prairie-fire, Painted Cup
  • Families Mentioned: Scrophulariaceae (Figwort), Orobanchaceae (Broom-rape). Note that the family placement may vary based on taxonomic updates.
  • Species Examples:
    • Castilleja applegatei (Applegate's Indian Paintbrush, Wavyleaf Indian Paintbrush)
    • Castilleja chromosa (Colorful Indian Paintbrush)
    • Castilleja mollis (Soft-leaved Indian Paintbrush)
    • Castilleja integra (Wholeleaf Indian Paintbrush)
    • Castilleja linariaefolia
    • Castilleja gracillima (Slender Indian Paintbrush)
    • Castilleja annua
    • Castilleja coccinea (Scarlet Painted-cup)
  • Synonyms/Alternative Names: Soft-leaf Indian Paintbrush, Soft-leaved Paintbrush
  • The species name "mollis" means "soft," referring to the soft hairs on the leaves of Castilleja mollis.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Indian paintbrushes are found in various regions, including western areas.
  • They can thrive in diverse habitats, such as sagebrush environments and mountain roadsides.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Leaves are generally long, narrow, and lanceolate with pointed tips.
  • Some species have leaves divided into three lobes.
  • The foliage can be glabrous (smooth) or covered with hairs, ranging from long, soft hairs to stiff, straight hairs. Some species possess glandular hairs, particularly at the top of the plant.
  • The inflorescence can be yellow.

Quirky Facts

  • The Indian paintbrush has a connection to the invention of Coca-Cola.
  • Some Native American tribes smoked the leaves for medicinal purposes.

Ecological Role and Interactions

  • Taylor's checkerspot caterpillars feed on Indian paintbrush.

Endangered Status

  • The Soft-leaf Paintbrush is listed on the U.S. Endangered Species list.

Traditional Uses

  • North American Indians smoked the leaves for medicinal purposes.
  • The Maidu used Indian Paintbrush for food and as a diuretic. They also used it to cure ailments.
  • An extract of the leaf was sometimes taken during pregnancy.
  • The edible flowers of the Indian paintbrush were consumed.

Further Information

  • iNaturalist Network
  • NatureServe
  • ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System)