Castilleja Tenuiflora Var. Xylorrhiza

Description

Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. This plant is native to California and can be found growing in many different habitats such as grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands. The plant’s common name is “woodyroot Indian paintbrush” due to its woody taproot and the vibrant red-orange flowers that resemble paintbrushes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza can grow up to 60 cm tall and has a woody taproot. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, usually measuring about 2-5 cm in length. The flowers are the most striking feature of this plant, with vibrant red-orange bracts that form a tubular shape and surround the smaller yellow flowers. The flowers bloom from March to June and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Care Guide

Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements:

• Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but will not grow well in heavy clay soils.
• Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow well.
• Hardiness Zones: Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza is not particularly prone to pests or diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. Good air circulation and proper watering can help prevent it, and fungicides can be used to control it.

Habitat

Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza is native to California and can be found growing in many different habitats such as grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and requires full sun to partial shade to grow well.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the difference between Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza and other Indian paintbrush species?

A: Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza is unique among Indian paintbrush species due to its woody taproot and the vibrant red-orange flowers that resemble paintbrushes.

Q: Can Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza be grown in containers?

A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 8 inches deep and has drainage holes.

Q: How often should Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza be fertilized?

A: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring.

Q: How long do the flowers of Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza last?

A: The flowers bloom from March to June and can last for several weeks.

Related Plants

• Castilleja affinis
• Castilleja applegatei
• Castilleja chromosa
• Castilleja foliolosa
• Castilleja miniata

References

• Calflora: Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza
• CNPS Inventory: Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza
• USDA Plants Database: Castilleja tenuiflora var. xylorrhiza