giant red Indian paintbrush
Castilleja miniata
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size1 to 3 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Red , pink , orange
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Giant red Indian paintbrush (Castilleja miniata) is a perennial for borders, meadows, and woodland gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and average to wet, sandy or loamy soil. Its red, orange, or pink bracts hide small green flowers and draw hummingbirds. It is a partial parasite that borrows nutrients from nearby plants, often grasses. Transplanting usually kills it, so choose its spot with care.
Pairs well with Blue grama, Little bluestem, and Beardtongue.
Native range
AK, AZ, CA, CO, and 14 more places. See all 18
AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, ND, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, WY; AB, BC, MB, ON, SK, and YT.