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Description
Castilleja Elmeri, also known as Elmer’s Paintbrush, is a flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the Orobanchaceae family and is known for its vibrant orange-red flowers that bloom in the summer. This herbaceous perennial plant can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Castilleja |
Appearance
The Castilleja Elmeri plant has lance-shaped green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide. The flowers are tube-shaped with four lobes and grow up to 2 inches long. The flowers are bright orange-red in color and bloom in the summer. The plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden.
Care Guide
Water
The Castilleja Elmeri plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.
Fertilization
The Castilleja Elmeri plant does not require fertilization.
Soil
The Castilleja Elmeri plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Sunlight
The Castilleja Elmeri plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect the bloom size and color.
Hardiness Zones
The Castilleja Elmeri plant is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Castilleja Elmeri plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Castilleja Elmeri plant is native to North America and can be found in grasslands, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Castilleja Elmeri be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Castilleja Elmeri can be grown in containers. Use well-draining soil and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I prune Castilleja Elmeri?
A: Castilleja Elmeri does not require pruning.
Q: Can Castilleja Elmeri tolerate drought?
A: Castilleja Elmeri can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moderate watering.
Q: How long does Castilleja Elmeri bloom?
A: Castilleja Elmeri blooms in the summer and can continue blooming for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Castilleja Angustifolia
- Castilleja Applegatei
- Castilleja Chromosa
- Castilleja Miniata
References
- “Castilleja Elmeri.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c558>.
- “Castilleja Elmeri.” Plant of the Week. Accessed 10 June 2021. <https://plantoftheweek.org/week255.shtml>.
- “Elmer’s Paintbrush (Castilleja Elmeri).” Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Accessed 10 June 2021. <https://www.sbbg.org/explore-garden/native-plant-garden/plant/elmers-paintbrush-castilleja-elmeri>.
