Wholeleaf Indian Paintbrush

Castilleja integra

Native to:
Mexico, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Orobanchaceae
Genus:
Castilleja
Species:
Castilleja integra
USDA Symbol:
CAIN14

Growth Characteristics

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

Wildlife Benefits

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

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Anicia checkerspot (Euphydryas anicia), Thessalia fulvia, Thessalia leanira, Variable checkerspot (Euphydryas chalcedona)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
hummingbirds, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
often found in open, sunny areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 4-8 weeks; surface sow on moist medium.