Prairie Indian Paintbrush, Downy Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja purpurea (Nutt.) G. Don
Family :Scrophulariaceae
Longevity : Perennial
Origin :Native
Season :Cool
Indian Paintbrush can grow 12- 18 inches tall. This plant can be found in dry caliche and sandy soil on hillsides and prairies. Indian paintbrush blooms from May to June and the color of the flower can vary between reddish orange and yellow-orange. The leaves of Indian paintbrushes are simple and are alternating growing between one and three inches long. Indian paintbrushes are considered semi-parasitic because the roots tend to penetrate the roots of surrounding plants and use a portion of the “host” plants nutrients.
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