Northwestern Indian Paintbrush

Castilleja angustifolia

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Orobanchaceae
Genus:
Castilleja
Species:
Castilleja angustifolia
USDA Symbol:
CAAN7

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Subshrub
Height:
50 cm
Light Requirements:
Shade
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul,aug
Bloom Colors:
red, orange, yellow

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Amblyptilia pica, Anicia checkerspot (Euphydryas anicia), ⚠️Edith's checkerspot (Euphydryas editha), Thessalia leanira, Variable checkerspot (Euphydryas chalcedona)

Reported Fauna Sightings

Bees: Yellow bumble bee (Bombus fervidus)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
hummingbirds, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts from root crown following fire; benefits from periodic burns that reduce competing vegetation.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
often found in arid, open habitats

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days
Germination Time:
14–60 days
Notes:
Hemiparasitic; requires host plant roots for successful establishment. Seed germinates best when sown near host grasses or forbs.

Pre-treatment: None required

Source: npn.rngr.net