Species Scarlet Paintbrush
light-red flowers with green leaves and brown stems

Scarlet Paintbrush

Castilleja miniata

Also Known As - Giant Red Indian Paintbrush,Greater Red Indian Paintbrush
Scarlet Paintbrush is a beautiful annual flower, known for its vibrant red, orange, and yellow-hued blossoms. The flowers of the plant appear in early summer, allowing it to stand out amongst other brushy vegetation. The plant grows to an average height of 60 cm and thrives in sunny, well-drained areas. This species is a beloved addition to any garden, as it attracts both birds and bees. Scarlet Paintbrush is also famous for its medicinal uses - the leaves are dried and used as a treatment for ulcers, respiratory problems, and to reduce inflammation.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Scarlet Paintbrush requires frequent watering because it is a shallow-rooted plant. It should be watered about 2 to 3 times per week and preferably in the morning. Make sure to water slowly and deeply around the base of the plant, avoiding overly wetting the foliage. Additionally, provide extra water to Scarlet Paintbrush in warmer, drier climates. It is especially important to water during periods of extended drought or heat.

sunlight

Scarlet Paintbrush is an annual plant species that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to produce vibrant blooms. The ideal amount of sunlight for Scarlet Paintbrush is 8 to 10 hours a day during the spring and summer months when it is actively growing and blooming. During the fall and winter months, providing less direct sunlight - typically 4 to 6 hours a day - is sufficient. The Scarlet Paintbrush should not be exposed to more than 10 hours of direct sunlight during any season.

pruning

Scarlet Paintbrush should be pruned in the late fall or early spring. Pruning should only remove dead, damaged, or diseased stems. Prune back 1-third of the dying stems, as they provide food for the plant’s energy reserves. This will encourage the production of new shoots and growth. Prune just above a node or a lateral bud, which will produce the best results. Pruning too much may cause the plant to become overgrown and leggy.