Unmistakeable clusters of red flowers top the ‘brushes’ of this biennial native in spring and summer. The color is actually leafy bracts which last longer than flower petals. Not available in plant form. Seed only.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja coccinea
Plant Type: Annuals
Native Environment: Prairie, Glade
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June)
Main Color: Red, Yellow
Fall Color:
Hardy From Zone:
Hardy To Zone:


Sun Exposure
Full Sun

Soil
Moisture
Dry, Moderate

Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Hummingbird

Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Nectar

Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
8 to
24
inches
Spread:
6 to
8
inches
Size
Height: 8 to
24
inches
Spread: 6 to
8
inches
Size
Height: 8 to
24
inches
Spread: 6 to
8
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Native Americans made a weak flower tea for rheumatism and a contraceptive also.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Dry or medium sites, especially likes some moisture in the spring. Seed into sunny prairie/meadow plantings.
Special Features
Special Usage
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
Check out the Grow Native! Committee’s Top Ten picks of native plants for a particular purpose.
What’s the Next Step?
Picked out your plants? View our Resource Guide of garden centers, seed sources, landscapers, education resources, and more!
Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.