Harsh Indian Paintbrush

Castilleja hispida

Native to:
Canada, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Orobanchaceae
Genus:
Castilleja
Species:
Castilleja hispida
USDA Symbol:
CAHI9

Growth Characteristics

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

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Reported Fauna Sightings

Hummingbirds: Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
hummingbirds, butterflies, bees
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts from root crown after fire; often increases in abundance post-burn in prairie and meadow habitats.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
often found in open meadows and grasslands

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
14–60 days
Notes:
Hemiparasitic; requires host plant roots for successful establishment. Seeds need light for germination.