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Description
Castilleja Scabrida, also known as rough Indian paintbrush, is a flowering perennial plant belonging to the family Orobanchaceae. These plants are native to the western United States and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and prairies. The plant is characterized by its bright red or orange-red flowers, which resemble paintbrushes, and its hairy and rough leaves. It is a popular plant among gardeners due to its vibrant colors and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Castilleja |
Appearance
Castilleja Scabrida can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The plant has a clumping habit and produces multiple stems from a central point. Its leaves are hairy, rough, and lance-shaped. The flowers are arranged in a dense spike and are bright red or orange-red in color. The flowers are tubular and have a curved shape, resembling a paintbrush. The plant blooms from May to August and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water
Castilleja Scabrida prefers well-draining soils and does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering it again.
Fertilization
Castilleja Scabrida does not require much fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in spring to encourage healthy growth.
Soil
Castilleja Scabrida prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
Sunlight
Castilleja Scabrida prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and reduce blooming.
Hardiness Zones
Castilleja Scabrida is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Castilleja Scabrida is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. If you notice any signs of disease, remove and destroy the affected plant parts.
Habitat
Castilleja Scabrida is native to the western United States and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and prairies. The plant prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. It is adapted to dry and rocky soils and can grow in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Castilleja Scabrida?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering it again.
Q: Can Castilleja Scabrida tolerate shade?
A: Castilleja Scabrida prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and reduce blooming.
Q: How tall does Castilleja Scabrida grow?
A: Castilleja Scabrida can grow up to 1-2 feet tall.
Q: What is the blooming period of Castilleja Scabrida?
A: Castilleja Scabrida blooms from May to August.
Related Plants
- Castilleja Miniata
- Castilleja Pallida
- Castilleja Occidentalis
- Castilleja Chromosa
References
- “Castilleja Scabrida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 2 Aug. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l970>.
- “Castilleja Scabrida.” PlantFiles. Accessed 2 Aug. 2021. <https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1136/>.
- “Castilleja Scabrida – Rough Indian Paintbrush.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 2 Aug. 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/paintbrush/castilleja-scabrida-rough-indian-paintbrush.htm>.
