Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja Coccinea) is a biennial herb in the Orobanchaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 3-8. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Castilleja coccinea is a biennial herbaceous wildflower known for its bright red to scarlet bracts that resemble a paintbrush dipped in paint.

Indian Paintbrush

Indian Paintbrush

Castilleja Coccinea

Castilleja coccinea is a biennial herbaceous wildflower known for its bright red to scarlet bracts that resemble a paintbrush dipped in paint.

Quick Facts

Type
herb
Lifecycle
biennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
3-8

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy, gravelly
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:pollinator attractor, ornamental

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Indian Paintbrush

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Indian Paintbrush
Indian Paintbrush detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Orobanchaceae
Genus:Castilleja