Cliff Paintbrush
Castilleja rupicola
Also Known As - Cliff Indian PaintbrushWatering:
Minimal
Hardiness Zone:
Sun:
full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
bronze,green,red,purple
Growth Rate:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
When it comes to watering Purple Paintbrush, it should be done regularly, but not excessively. This plant prefers moderate hydration, so the best way to provide water for it is to check the soil regularly. When the soil just starts to feel dry, water the plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, and then empty any excess water to avoid overwatering. During the growing season for this plant (March-July), it may need watering every 7-14 days. During cooler, dormant months (August-February), water the plant every 4-6 weeks.
sunlight
Purple paintbrush (Castilleja purpurascens) needs full sun for 6-8 hours per day to thrive. In areas with hot summers, partial shade is important during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorching. However, some shade during the hotter part of the day is beneficial and will not significantly reduce flowering. In cooler areas, full sun is important for flower production. The plant will also require fairly good soil drainage and regular irrigation during the summer months.
pruning
For Purple Paintbrush (Castilleja purpurascens), pruning is typically done in the spring, right after the flowers have finished blooming. Pruning should be done very lightly, as this plant is quite delicate and can easily become damaged. When pruning, only dead or wilted branches should be removed, and any wayward branches should be pruned to help the plant stay in its desired shape. Pruning should be done minimally to ensure the health of the plant.
