
Since hummingbirds have the long, slim bill to reach the nectar, they are a perfect pollinator for these tubular-type flowers.Ĭlick here to learn about how the Indian Paintbrush got its name. Spectacular when planted in mass and combined with Texas Bluebonnets (Lupinus texensis). Because of their interesting petal shape, ruby-throated hummingbirds are a great pollinator of the Indian Paintbrush in general, and other members of this genus. Indian paintbrush flowers are named for the clusters of spiky blooms that resemble paintbrushes dipped in bright red or orange-yellow paint. Growing Indian paintbrush in a container is complicated, but it can be done. Indian paintbrush is considered hemiparasitic, as it can pull needed moisture and nutrients from the root systems of other host plants located nearby. Like any other flowering plant, Indian Paintbrush rely on pollinators to help them reproduce year after year. Most of the time, they will parasitize the perennial grasses that accompany them (USFS), as well as sagebrush. When we think of plants, we know they photosynthesize and get their energy from the direct sunlight, but these plants are hemiparasites, meaning that they get some of their nutrients from other organisms as well. Coccinea refers to the red petals that resemble cup-like structures. FACTS/ USES: A special delight for young Indian children was to pull the tubular flowers and suck out their sweet nectar. Wyoming’s state flower is specifically Castilleja linariaefolia, but we will focus on the species coccinea. Primarily occurring in open areas, Indian paintbrush can be.



With over 200 species of Castilleja, this species of Indian Paintbrush is native to the United States. to a good spring wildflower display and better-than-average.
