Castilleja Organorum

Description

Castilleja Organorum, also known as Organ Mountain Indian paintbrush, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. It is native to the Organ Mountains in southern New Mexico, USA. This plant is known for its showy, red-orange flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are arranged in spikes and have a unique shape, with a hooded upper lip and a lower lip that is divided into three lobes. The leaves of Castilleja Organorum are narrow and green, and they grow in a basal rosette. This plant can grow up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Castilleja Organorum is a beautiful plant that can add a pop of color to any garden. Its flowers are the most striking feature, with their vibrant red-orange color and unique shape. The hooded upper lip and lower lip divided into three lobes make them look like little bird beaks. The flowers are arranged in spikes that can be up to 6 inches long. The leaves of this plant are narrow and green, and they grow in a basal rosette. The leaves can be up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The stem of Castilleja Organorum is hairy and can be green or purple.

Care Guide

To keep Castilleja Organorum healthy and thriving, it is important to follow a few care guidelines. Here are some tips:

Water

This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water it deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering it again.

Fertilization

Castilleja Organorum does not require a lot of fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Soil

This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy loam soil is ideal.

Sunlight

Castilleja Organorum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in weak growth and fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones

This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Castilleja Organorum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent this, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If you notice powdery mildew, you can treat it with a fungicide.

Habitat

Castilleja Organorum is native to the Organ Mountains in southern New Mexico, USA. It grows in rocky outcrops and slopes at elevations of 5,000 to 8,000 feet. In its natural habitat, it grows alongside other native plants such as yucca, agave, and cactus.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Castilleja Organorum be grown in containers?

A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.

Q: Does Castilleja Organorum attract pollinators?

A: Yes, the unique shape of its flowers attracts hummingbirds and bees.

Q: When is the best time to plant Castilleja Organorum?

A: The best time to plant this plant is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild.

Q: How often should I deadhead Castilleja Organorum?

A: You can deadhead the spent flowers as soon as they start to fade. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.

Related Plants

• Castilleja Applegatei
• Castilleja Chromosa
• Castilleja Miniata
• Castilleja Rhexifolia
• Castilleja Sulphurea

References

• “Castilleja Organorum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CAOR5.
• “Castilleja Organorum.” New Mexico State University. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://aces.nmsu.edu/ces/yard/2005/042305.html.
• “Castilleja Organorum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CAOR5.