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: Glade, Prairie
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June)
Main Color: Red, Yellow
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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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?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.