Castilleja Lineata

Description

Castilleja Lineata, also known as the Wyoming Indian Paintbrush, is a perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the family Orobanchaceae and is a member of the Castilleja genus. The plant is known for its bright red or orange-red flowers, which are shaped like a tube and have greenish-yellow bracts. The flowers bloom from May to August and grow on long spikes that can reach up to 40 cm in height.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Castilleja Lineata has a height of about 10-40 cm and a width of about 10-30 cm. The leaves are green, lance-shaped, and have a smooth texture. The flowers are bright red or orange-red and are shaped like a tube, with greenish-yellow bracts. The plant has a taproot system, which makes it drought-resistant.

Care Guide

Water

Castilleja Lineata requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry.

Fertilization

The plant does not require much fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the spring season to promote healthy growth.

Soil

Castilleja Lineata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy loam soil is ideal for this plant.

Sunlight

The plant prefers full sunlight exposure, but it can also grow in partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Castilleja Lineata can grow in hardiness zones 3-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Castilleja Lineata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, some common pests that may attack this plant include aphids, spider mites, and thrips. To prevent pest infestation, you can spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Some common diseases that may affect this plant include powdery mildew and rust. To prevent disease, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Habitat

Castilleja Lineata is native to North America and can be found in the western United States, including Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, and Montana. It grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Castilleja Lineata a good plant for attracting pollinators?

A: Yes, Castilleja Lineata is a great plant for attracting pollinators, especially bees and butterflies.

Q: Can Castilleja Lineata tolerate drought?

A: Yes, Castilleja Lineata has a taproot system that makes it drought-resistant.

Q: How often should I water Castilleja Lineata?

A: Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry.

Q: What is the ideal soil type for Castilleja Lineata?

A: Castilleja Lineata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy loam soil is ideal for this plant.

Related Plants

• Castilleja Miniata
• Castilleja Parviflora
• Castilleja Rhexifolia
• Castilleja Chromosa
• Castilleja Angustifolia

References

• “Castilleja Lineata.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the University of Texas at Austin. Accessed 7 August 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CALI17.
• “Castilleja Lineata.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 7 August 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CALI17.
• “Wyoming Indian Paintbrush.” National Park Service. Accessed 7 August 2021. https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/rockies/plant/164.htm.