Contents
Description
Castilleja Lineariloba, commonly known as the Scarlet Paintbrush or Narrow-leaved Indian Paintbrush, is a perennial wildflower that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to western North America, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, open woods, and slopes. This plant can grow up to 40 cm tall and has showy, bright scarlet-red flowers that bloom from May to August. The flowers are arranged in spikes and are surrounded by green bracts that resemble leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Castilleja |
Appearance
The Scarlet Paintbrush has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-7 cm long and 1-3 mm wide. The leaves are green and can be slightly hairy. The flowers are the most striking feature of this plant, with their bright scarlet-red color and tubular shape. The flowers are 2-3 cm long and are arranged in spikes that can be up to 10 cm long. The green bracts that surround the flowers are also an important feature of this plant, as they resemble leaves and give the spikes a bushy appearance.
Care Guide
Water: The Scarlet Paintbrush prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. Watering should be done sparingly, especially during the plant’s dormant period.Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.Soil: The Scarlet Paintbrush prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and not produce as many flowers.Hardiness Zones: The Scarlet Paintbrush is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Scarlet Paintbrush is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Powdery mildew can also be a problem if the plant is grown in a humid environment.
Habitat
The Scarlet Paintbrush is native to western North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, open woods, and slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Scarlet Paintbrush be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Scarlet Paintbrush can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I water my Scarlet Paintbrush?
A: The Scarlet Paintbrush prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. Watering should be done sparingly, especially during the plant’s dormant period.Q: How do I propagate my Scarlet Paintbrush?
A: The Scarlet Paintbrush can be propagated by seed or by division. Seeds should be sown in the fall, and division should be done in the spring.Q: Is the Scarlet Paintbrush deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the Scarlet Paintbrush is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Castilleja Miniata
- Castilleja Applegatei
- Castilleja Occidentalis
- Castilleja Rhexifolia
References
- “Castilleja Lineariloba.” Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CALI19. Accessed 5 May 2021.
- “Castilleja Lineariloba.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c932. Accessed 5 May 2021.
