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Description
Castilleja Raupii, also known as Raup’s Indian paintbrush, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. It is named after Robert Raup, a botanist from Colorado. This plant is native to the western United States and can be found in the Great Basin and Colorado Plateau regions. It typically grows up to 12 inches tall and produces bright red or orange flowers that bloom from May to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Castilleja |
Appearance
Castilleja Raupii has lance-shaped leaves that are grayish-green in color and covered in fine hairs. The flowers are densely clustered on a spike and are tubular in shape with bright red or orange bracts. The plant typically grows up to 12 inches tall and can spread up to 18 inches wide. Its roots are fibrous and do not form a taproot.
Care Guide
Castilleja Raupii prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. It thrives in dry conditions and is drought-tolerant. Watering should be done sparingly, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Fertilization is not necessary, as the plant can obtain nutrients from the surrounding soil. It can tolerate a wide range of hardiness zones, from 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Castilleja Raupii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Castilleja Raupii is commonly found in dry, rocky areas, such as sagebrush flats and pinyon-juniper woodlands. It can also be found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and abandoned fields. It is native to the western United States and can be found in the Great Basin and Colorado Plateau regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Castilleja Raupii easy to grow?
A: Yes, Castilleja Raupii is relatively easy to grow and requires minimal care.
Q: Can Castilleja Raupii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Castilleja Raupii can be grown in containers, as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant is watered sparingly.
Q: Does Castilleja Raupii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Castilleja Raupii is known to attract hummingbirds and bees.
Q: How often should Castilleja Raupii be fertilized?
A: Castilleja Raupii does not require fertilization, as it can obtain nutrients from the surrounding soil.
Related Plants
- Castilleja Chromosa
- Castilleja Miniata
- Castilleja Parviflora
References
- “Castilleja Raupii.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CARA21
- “Raup’s Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja Raupii).” Arizona Wildflower Field Guide. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. https://wildflowersofarizona.com/flower_gallery/castilleja-raupii/
- “Castilleja Raupii.” Flora of North America. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250101853
