
Castilleja hispida
Castilleja hispida
Harsh paintbrush is a hemiparasitic wildflower that requires a host plant such as a native grass or perennial to thrive, making it challenging to establish in garden settings. Plant it in well-drained soil with partial shade and consistent moisture, always alongside a compatible host. It rewards patient gardeners with stunning scarlet-orange bracts that attract hummingbirds and pollinators throughout summer.
Care Level
High
Sun
Partial Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
Fast
Mature Height
240″ – 480″
Soil
loam
Life Cycle
Perennial
Spacing
18″
Flowers
mixed
Watering Schedule
Every 5-7 Days During Growing Season • Water Moderately, Keeping Soil Consistently Moist But Not Waterlogged
Soil pH
6 – 8
Temperature
-25° – 95°F
Mature Spread
up to 240″
Root Depth
Medium
Foliage
Medium
Propagation: Seed
Native to
Attracts
Sources
Data: trefle, usda
Image: trefle.io — CC-BY-SA
No nurseries currently have this species in stock.