Wavy-leaf paintbrush

Castilleja applegatei

Also known as Castilleja applegatei, Wavyleaf Indian paintbrush, Applegate's paintbrush

Flowering Plants · Native Plants · Paintbrush · Hemiparasitic · Native Wildflower · Hummingbird Plant · Western Wildflower · Rocky Soil · Pollinator · Orange Flowers · California Native

Wavy-leaf paintbrush is a hemiparasitic wildflower that requires a compatible native host plant—such as sagebrush or native grasses—growing nearby to thrive in the garden. Plant it in well-drained, gritty or rocky soil in a sunny to lightly shaded spot and avoid heavy fertilization, which can harm the host-dependent root connections. It rewards patient gardeners with vivid orange-red bracts that are highly attractive to hummingbirds and native bees.