Victoria's Paintbrush

Hairy Owl's Clover needs plenty of water to stay healthy, but should be watered carefully. When grown in a pot, it should be watered every 5 to 7 days, making sure the soil is not oversaturated. When grown in the ground, it should be watered about once a week, depending on your local climate. Make sure to water deeply and thoroughly to encourage deep root growth. During long periods of dry weather, Hairy Owl's Clover may need extra water.

Hairy Owl's Clover, or Castilleja tenuis, prefers to receive a few hours of direct sunlight throughout the day, especially in the morning and early evening. It does well in a location with partial sunlight, and can tolerate some shade as well. Although this plant is native to arid, sunny regions, it will not tolerate full, direct sun for extended periods of time as intense heat can cause the foliage to wilt. Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can also cause leaf damage and even death. Therefore, it is best to position this plant in a location that receives some morning sun but is shaded in the afternoon to provide protection from intense heat.

Hairy Owl's Clover should be pruned twice a year—once in late spring and again in early fall. For the spring pruning, cut back the entire plant to 4 to 6 inches above the ground. In the fall, cut back only the flowering stems, leaving the basal foliage in place. This allows the plant to store energy and nutrients for the winter. Neglecting to prune will lead to a decline in flowering and a decrease in overall health of the plant.