Paintbrush, Indian
(Castilleja miniata)

Indian Paintbrush is a well-known and popular wildflower of the western U.S. It gets its name from the red bracts that resemble a paintbrush pointing skyward. It is commonly found in mountain meadows, open woods and along roadsides. Flowers attract hummingbirds, bumble bees and other native bees. Seeds have high dormancy – plant in late fall or cold stratify seed in spring prior to sowing seed. Indian Paintbrush roots are parasitic and will take nutrients from neighboring roots. Planting a companion plant such as a native bunchgrass will help Indian Paintbrush thrive.