Downy paintbrush
Castilleja sessiliflora
Downy paintbrush is a hemiparasitic wildflower that requires a grass or forb host plant to thrive, making it challenging to grow outside its native prairie habitat. It prefers well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade and does not transplant well, so sow seed directly near suitable host plants. Best suited for experienced native plant gardeners recreating authentic prairie or grassland plantings.
Care Level
High
Sun
Partial Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
Moderate
Mature Height
12″ – 48″
Soil
loam
Life Cycle
Perennial
Spacing
12″
Flowers
yellow
Watering Schedule
Every 10-14 Days • Water Moderately, Allowing Soil To Dry Slightly Between Waterings
Soil pH
6 – 7.4
Temperature
-25° – 95°F
Mature Spread
up to 48″
Root Depth
Medium
Foliage
Coarse
Propagation: Seed, Division, Cutting
Native to
Attracts
Sources
Data: trefle, usda
Image: trefle.io — Taken May 25, 2021 by Jennifer MacDonald (cc-by-sa)
No nurseries currently have this species in stock.