Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja applegatei
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Indian Paintbrush Photo Gallery
Basic Information
Other names
Paintbrush
Order
Lamiales
Family
Orobanchaceae
Size
1-3 ft
Blooming Season
Spring - Summer
Bloom Color
Red
Attracts
Photographers
Danger
Roots and green parts can be toxic if consumed.
Can I eat Indian Paintbrush?
The flowers are edible.
Medicinal uses for Indian Paintbrush
The plant was used by Native Americans to make hairwash, treat rheumatism and STDS. Paintbrush has a high Selenium content, which has medical merits and is often in shampoos.
Indian Paintbrush Habitat
Pine Forests, Meadows
Indian Paintbrush Facts
This torch like wildflower is very common in the western United States. There are five supspecies. All species of Indian Paintbrush are a root parasite. While it can survive without hosting on another plant, those that do grow bigger and faster. Castilleja applegatei is one of more than 200 species of Castilleja.