Indian Paintbrush*
Castilleja wightii
Care
full sun
3–3ft tall
Mar-Aug
Friendly
Prized
Central Coast Ranges and Sierra Nevada foothills from Kern County north to Fresno County, between 2000-6000 ft elevation in mixed oak woodland and chaparral.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Indian Paintbrush in full sun where it will thrive in Bay Area conditions. While specific soil and drainage requirements aren't documented, remember this is a native California wildflower that naturally grows from sea level to 1,000 feet in our region, so it's adapted to local conditions. Space plants according to their mature size of about 3 feet tall.
After Planting
After planting, establish your Indian Paintbrush during its first growing season, though specific watering schedules aren't documented - water conservatively and let the plant's vigor guide you, as native plants typically need less water once established. Expect blooms from March through August. The biggest mistake Bay Area gardeners make with native wildflowers is overwatering; this plant evolved to handle our dry summers, so resist the urge to coddle it.
Visit Calscape for more information about Indian Paintbrush*
Wildlife Supported
Birds
breeding season nectar resource in California coastal scrub
spring/early summer blooming period for nectar foraging
Insects
larvae feed on foliage during summer months
early season larval development
larvae fold and feed within plant tissues
larval development on plant tissues, single generation