SafePlants

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja spp.)

Indian Paintbrush, scientifically known as Castilleja spp., is a captivating genus of plants with vibrant colors. The name "Indian Paintbrush" is a common name encompassing numerous species within the Castilleja genus.

Considerations for Pets

• Some species, such as Castilleja viscidula and Castilleja applegatei, are noted as being "sticky" due to glandular hairs. This stickiness could potentially cause discomfort or matting of fur if a pet comes into contact with the plant.
• Castilleja applegatei has hairs, both short and sticky (glandular) and longer.

Considerations for Children

• The Arapaho name for one species, kouhuyoo', translates to "it is sticky," indicating that some varieties have a sticky texture that could attract children's attention.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Castilleja spp.
• Family: Scrophulariaceae (Snapdragon/Figwort Family)
• Synonyms:
  • Castilleja viscidula A. Gray (Sticky Indian Paintbrush)
  • Castilleja glandulifera (Gland Indian Paintbrush, Sticky Paintbrush)

Common Names

• Indian Paintbrush
• Prairie-fire
• Sticky Indian Paintbrush
• Gland Indian Paintbrush
• Golden Indian Paintbrush
• Wavy-leaved Indian Paintbrush
• Fairbanks annual Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja annua Pennell)
• Obscure Indian-paintbrush (Castilleja cryptantha Pennell &amp Jones)
• Coville’s or Rocky Mountain Paintbrush (Castilleja flava)
• Yellow Paintbrush (Castilleja flava)
• Rosy Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja flava)

Distribution and Habitat

• Found in areas such as the Wind River Wilderness Area in Wyoming and Mt. Timpanogas Wilderness Area.
• Specific locations mentioned include eastern Oregon and Lookout Rock, Monument Rock Wilderness.
• One species only grows when associated with sticky monkeyflower

Ecological Role

• Indian Paintbrush is a root parasite, meaning it obtains nutrients by attaching to the roots of other plants.

Morphological Characteristics

• Described as a short perennial.
• Some species have sticky, wavy-edged leaves.
• Bears bright, showy bracts and flowers. One species has white bracts.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Known to grow in association with plants like bluebells, columbine, yellow aster, and sticky arnica.
• Grows in association with Sticky Monkey-Flower (Mimulus aurantiacus)

Quirky Facts

• The Arapaho name for one species, kouhuyoo', translates to "it is sticky."
• Indian Paintbrush has been used by the Maidu for food and as a diuretic.

Further Information

• Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Castilleja viscidula.
• USDA Plants Database and E-Flora (mentioned in relation to "golden Indian paintbrush").
• NIISS.org: Contains species profiles, habitat information, and control methods for Castilleja viscidula.
• Garden Guides