
Wavy-leaf paintbrush
Castilleja applegatei
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.
Care Level
High
Sun
Partial Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
Slow
Mature Height
120″ – 360″
Soil
loam
Life Cycle
Perennial
Spacing
18″
Flowers
red
Watering Schedule
Every 5-7 Days • Water Moderately To Keep Soil Consistently Slightly Moist But Never Waterlogged; Avoid Overhead Watering
Soil pH
6.3 – 7.8
Temperature
-25° – 95°F
Mature Spread
up to 180″
Root Depth
Shallow
Foliage
Medium
Propagation: Seed
Native to
Attracts
Sources
Data: trefle, usda
Image: trefle.io — Taken Apr 28, 2021 by Jim Conroy (cc-by-sa)
No nurseries currently have this species in stock.