Applegate's Indian Paintbrush
castilleja applegatei
Also known as: ["Applegate's Paintbrush","Applegate's Castilleja"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its distinctive red or orange bracts that resemble paintbrushes.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Castilleja |
| Botanical Name: | Castilleja applegatei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter; mimics native soil conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to dappled light in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base, avoid wetting foliage, and adjust frequency based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); prefers cooler nights and tolerates mild frosts.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool nights for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season, avoid excessive nitrogen
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most reliable; stem cuttings can be attempted but are less successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly or take stem cuttings.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring, when temperatures are mild and the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 3–6 weeks to germinate; cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, rooting hormone, misting bottle, heat mat, and grow lights.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; avoid disturbing young roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; trim spent flower stalks to promote reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor and shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) with good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Only repot if the plant becomes root-bound or soil quality declines; infrequent repotting is preferred.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation while avoiding waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to match dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage in prolonged freezes, and can lead to dieback if not protected.
Solution: Mulch to insulate roots; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration and nutrient uptake issues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply and more frequently; use reflective mulch.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize sparingly in spring and early summer, avoid in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Castilleja applegatei may experience mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects caused by the plant's toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Castilleja applegatei by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects due to the plant's secondary metabolites.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCastilleja applegatei contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects when ingested. The plant's tissues contain secondary metabolites that may interfere with normal physiological processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Castilleja applegatei toxic to humans or pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to humans or pets.
Q: How should I care for Castilleja applegatei?
A: It requires well-drained soil, partial shade, and moderate watering, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Castilleja applegatei attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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