Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Orobanchaceae

Genus:

Castilleja

Species:

Castilleja lacera

USDA Symbol:

CALA68

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Parasite

Height:

60 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun,jul

Bloom Colors:

red, yellow, orange

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

hummingbirds, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to arid, open habitats

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 and keep warm after stratification.