Common Name: Wavy-Leaf Paintbrush
Scientific Name: Castilleja applegatei
Native/Introduced: Native
Main Uses:
~Wildflower plantings
~As a pollinator
Height: 1-2 feet
Colors: Bright Orange/Red
Flowering Season: June-August
Soil Types: Medium to fine textured soil
Tolerances:
~Drought
~Some saline
Sun or Shade: Full sun
Lifecycle: Perennial
Planting Seed Rate: 0.25-0.5 lbs/acre
Estimated Seeds Per Pound: 4,500,000
Optimal Planting Season: Fall
Planting Depth: 1/4 inch
Category: Forb
 
Description:
Wavy-Leaf Paintbrush, scientifically known as Castilleja applegatei, is a perennial plant that exhibits a low-growing habit, making it a distinctive and attractive addition to natural landscapes. This plant is characterized by its unique orange-red bracts. This wildflower typically blooms from June to August.
 
This species of Indian Paintbrush is naturally distributed across a significant portion of the intermountain region. It can often be found thriving on dry to moist rocky open slopes in mid to high elevations in CO, UT, ID, NV, OR and CA.
 
Wavy-Leaf Paintbrush has gained popularity in landscaping and conservation efforts, most notably in wildflower plantings. Its striking appearance and ecological value as a pollinator attract a variety of insects, making it a valuable addition to garden and restoration projects aimed at supporting local biodiversity.
 
In terms of soil preferences, Sulfur Indian Paintbrush thrives in medium-textured soils and prefers full-sun conditions for optimal growth and flowering. Wavy-Leaf Paintbrush has low water requirements.
 
NRCS Plant Profile: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CAAP4
 
Photo Credit: Patrick Alexander and Andrey Zharkikh