Mountain Paintbrush

Mountain Paintbrush (Castilleja parviflora var. parviflora) should be watered once per week, using approximately 1/4 gallon of water per plant. Water slowly and deeply from the base of the plant so that the entire root zone gets moistened. Make sure to water the entire area, including the well-draining soil around the plant, to ensure optimal growth. Avoid overwatering, as the plant may become overwhelmed and rot. During very hot or dry conditions, water more often to keep the soil moist.

Mountain Paintbrush (Castilleja parviflora var. parviflora) plants need full sun exposure to thrive. They should receive a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, although more sunlight may be beneficial. The best time for them to receive full sun is during late spring through late summer in most areas. For optimal growth, they should be placed in an area with southern or southwestern exposures, away from tall trees or buildings that will provide shade. Avoid planting in areas that receive sun only during the morning or late afternoon; the sun's angle gives less intense light during these times, which can lead to reduced growth.

Mountain Paintbrush should be pruned annually in the early spring after it has finished flowering. Prune out any dead or damaged branches and remove 1/3 of the oldest canes of the plant to maintain its health. Pruning when the plant is actively growing helps encourage new growth, allowing the plant to thrive, and can also prevent an overgrown, leggy look. Avoid pruning in late spring or summer to avoid affecting the plant’s flowering.