Parrothead Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja pilosa
- Native to:
- United States
iNaturalist: © trevvan (iNaturalist #81589965)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Orobanchaceae
- Genus:
- Castilleja
- Species:
- Castilleja pilosa
- USDA Symbol:
- CAPI3
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Parasite
- Height:
- 40 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- jun,jul,aug
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow, greenish-yellow
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
⚠️Edith's checkerspot (Euphydryas editha)
Reported Fauna Sightings
Bees: Yellow bumble bee (Bombus fervidus)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- butterflies, hummingbirds
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- Prefers open, sunny locations in native habitats
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold moist stratification for 4-8 weeks. Surface sow on sterile medium.