Mountain Indian Paintbrush
castilleja parviflora
Also known as: ["Parviflora Indian Paintbrush","Small-flowered Indian Paintbrush"]
Overview
A hemiparasitic herbaceous perennial native to western North America, known for its distinctive bracts that resemble colorful flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Castilleja |
| Botanical Name: | Castilleja parviflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Sandy or loamy soil with good organic matter; well-aerated.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of filtered sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; place in dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains for indoor protection.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize soil dryness over strict schedules.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; use a mix with good aeration; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates cooler nights; avoid extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool nights.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, avoid in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when plant is actively growing but not stressed.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; deadhead spent flowers; trim selectively to shape.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not excessively larger than current container.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil degrades; every 2–3 years is typical.
Checklist
Check root crowding; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water 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 at the root zone until soil is moist but not saturated; ensure excess drains away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in heat; browning leaf edges in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil stays wet in cold; can lead to leaf damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost; move indoors in freezing temperatures.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or flower drop; increased water demand; potential for heat shock.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid feeding in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the compounds in Castilleja parviflora, which can induce mild gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxicity in cats is comparable to that in dogs, though individual sensitivity may vary.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Castilleja parviflora can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of iridoid glycosides. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may cause discomfort and require veterinary attention if symptoms persist.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCastilleja parviflora contains iridoid glycosides and other secondary metabolites that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects if ingested in significant quantities. The plant's physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive tract but may extend to mild systemic irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Castilleja parviflora toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Castilleja parviflora grow?
A: It is a hemiparasitic plant that often relies on host plants for nutrients.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Castilleja parviflora?
A: It thrives in well-drained soils and partial to full sun, often in mountainous regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
