Scarlet Indian paintbrush

Botanical Name Castilleja miniata

No Photo
Common Name Scarlet Indian paintbrush
Family Orobanchaceae - Broomrape
Description A leafy plant with hairy stems and leaves.
Mature Size 1-3 feet tall
Bloom May-Sept. The flower cluster resembles a ragged, scarlet paintbrush. The calyx and bracts beneath each flower are sticky.
Interesting Facts Difficult to transplant
Traditional and Medicinal Uses The most common historic use for paintbrush has been in conjunction with other plants to color deerskins red. The Tewa Indians ate raw paintbrush flowers.

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