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Description
Castilleja latifolia, commonly known as the mountain paintbrush, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. It is native to western North America, particularly in the Rocky Mountains, and can be found growing in open meadows, rocky slopes, and forest edges. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has bright red, showy flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer. The flowers are surrounded by green or yellow bracts that look like leaves, providing the plant with its distinctive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Castilleja |
Appearance
The mountain paintbrush has a distinctive appearance, with bright red flowers surrounded by green or yellow bracts that look like leaves. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a branching stem with green leaves that are linear to lanceolate in shape. The flowers bloom in the late spring and early summer and are often visited by hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
The mountain paintbrush is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater, as it can be susceptible to root rot. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The mountain paintbrush is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, it may attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The mountain paintbrush is native to western North America, particularly in the Rocky Mountains, and can be found growing in open meadows, rocky slopes, and forest edges. It is often found at higher elevations, up to 10,000 feet above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the mountain paintbrush be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the mountain paintbrush can be grown in containers. Ensure that the container has drainage holes, and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize the mountain paintbrush?
A: Fertilize the mountain paintbrush once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is the mountain paintbrush deer-resistant?
A: While the mountain paintbrush is not considered deer-resistant, it is not a preferred food source for deer.
Q: How long do the flowers of the mountain paintbrush last?
A: The flowers of the mountain paintbrush typically last for 2-3 weeks.
Related Plants
- Castilleja miniata
- Castilleja occidentalis
- Castilleja rhexifolia
- Castilleja sulphurea
References
- “Castilleja Latifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a724.
- “Castilleja Latifolia.” The Jepson Herbarium, University of California, Berkeley, www.jepsonherbarium.org/flora/ castilleja-latifolia.html.
