Scarlet Indian Paintbrush
castilleja coccinea
Also known as: ["Indian Paintbrush","Scarlet Paintbrush"]
Overview
A hemiparasitic herbaceous plant known for its vibrant red bracts that resemble brush strokes.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Castilleja |
| Botanical Name: | Castilleja coccinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: native prairie or meadow setting, or raised bed with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is loose and airy; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, avoid in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering; use a low-nitrogen formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may be slower to establish.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid sudden temperature drops; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow; flowers may fade quickly in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Castilleja coccinea may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The plant's toxic compounds can lead to irritation and mild systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Castilleja coccinea by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's compounds can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCastilleja coccinea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Castilleja coccinea toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Castilleja coccinea grow?
A: It is a hemiparasitic plant that often relies on host plants for nutrients.
Q: What are the common uses of Castilleja coccinea?
A: It is primarily grown for ornamental purposes due to its striking red bracts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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